Companies House Identity Verification: What Every UK Director Needs to Know

A significant change is coming for all UK company directors and Persons with Significant Control (PSCs). As part of the new powers granted under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA), Companies House is introducing mandatory identity verification.

From 18 November 2025, all new and existing directors will be required to verify their identity. This is a crucial step in the government’s strategy to enhance corporate transparency, tackle economic crime, and increase the integrity of the information on the company register.

What Are the New Identity Verification Requirements?

The new rules mandate that individuals appointed to key roles within a limited company must have their identity professionally verified. This requirement applies to:

• All New Directors: Anyone being appointed as a director from 18 November 2025 must verify their identity before their appointment can be registered.
• All Existing Directors: Current directors will have a 12-month transition period to complete their verification. This will need to be confirmed when the company files its next confirmation statement after the rules come into effect.
• Persons with Significant Control (PSCs): PSCs who are not also directors will need to follow the same verification process.

In the future, these checks will also be extended to LLP members and corporate directors.

How to Verify Your Identity: Your Two Options

There are two approved methods for completing the identity verification process:

1. Direct Verification via GOV.UK One Login (Digital Route) This is the primary and most straightforward method. Using the government’s secure digital platform, you will be guided through a process of scanning and submitting an approved form of photo identification (such as a passport or driving licence).

Upon successful verification, you will be issued a unique identifier. This confirms your identity is linked to your Companies House record and will be used for all future filings and appointments. This service is free of charge.

2. Verification via an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) Alternatively, you can have your identity verified by an officially registered agent, such as an accountancy firm, solicitor, or company formation agent. These providers are supervised under anti-money laundering regulations and are authorised by Companies House to perform these checks on your behalf.

This option is ideal for individuals who prefer professional assistance or are unable to use the digital route. Please note that ACSPs will typically charge a fee for this service.

The Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failing to verify your identity within the required timeframe is a serious compliance issue. The potential consequences include:

• Inability to be Appointed: An individual cannot be lawfully appointed as a director without being verified.
• Rejection of Filings: Key company filings may be rejected by Companies House if directors are not verified.
• Financial Penalties: Civil penalties may be issued against the company and the individual director for non-compliance.
• Damage to Company Reputation: A company’s record will show non-compliant directors, which can impact its standing with banks, investors, and suppliers.

It is therefore essential to treat this as a mandatory requirement and act promptly.

How to Prepare: A Checklist for Directors

Confirm Your Status: Review your current appointments on the public Companies House register to ensure all details are accurate.

Prepare Your Documents: Ensure you have a valid form of photo identification ready for the verification process.

Schedule Verification: Plan to complete the verification well ahead of your company’s confirmation statement deadline to avoid any last-minute issues.

Safeguard Your Details: Once verified directly, keep your unique identifier secure, as you will need it for future actions

Companies House will be sending out more info soon, but you can also find everything you need on the GOV.UK website.

We Can Help You Navigate These Changes

Need help with the process or want to talk through your options? Feel free to get in touch—we’re happy to help!

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