Kbis extract
An official document issued by the commercial-court clerk certifying a company's registration in the RCS. The firm's identity card, it is often required to open an account, sign contracts or check that a brokerage firm legally exists.
Key points
- The only official document proving the legal existence of a commercial company.
- Issued by the commercial-court clerk on request, in paper or digital form.
- Lists the manager, address, activity, capital and any recorded amendments.
- Its recency is often required (less than 3 months) by banks and ORIAS.
Frequently asked questions
How do you obtain a Kbis extract quickly?
A Kbis extract can be downloaded directly online from the official Infogreffe portal, usually within minutes, for a modest fee. For the routine needs of a brokerage firm (ORIAS renewal, account opening, bank agreement signing), the digital version with verification code is now accepted by virtually all counterparts.
Why do banks require a recent Kbis rather than an older one?
The Kbis reflects the state of the register at the date of issue. An old document may no longer match the current reality: the manager may have changed, the activity may have been amended, or the company may be in insolvency proceedings. By requiring a recent Kbis, the bank ensures it is dealing with a legally existing entity that is current with its filing obligations.
What is the difference between a Kbis and a D1 extract?
The Kbis concerns commercial companies (SARL, SAS, SA, etc.) registered in the RCS. The D1 extract applies to individuals carrying out a craft activity registered in the trades directory. A credit broker operating as a company receives a Kbis; a micro-entrepreneur or sole trader may be subject to an equivalent document suited to their status.
In practice
When signing a partnership agreement with a property developer, the head of a brokerage firm attaches a Kbis dated less than one month earlier: the document confirms to the developer the exact identity of the signing manager and the validity of the signing delegation.
Official sources
- How to obtain a K or Kbis extract? · Entreprendre.Service-Public.gouv.fr
- Article L519-1 of the Monetary and Financial Code · Légifrance
- Prudential supervision and resolution authority · ACPR (Banque de France)