Companies House Identity Verification: What UK Directors and PSCs Must Do by Autumn 2025
Companies House Identity Verification is to become compulsory from 18 November 2025. In this guide, we outline the changes and explain what the individuals affected need to do now to remain compliant. Not being registered can lead to disqualification as a company director or a person of significant control (PSC).
Published by Alexander & Co | Expert Chartered Accountants and Tax Advisors
Significant changes are being introduced to corporate compliance in the UK, as Companies House prepares to implement compulsory identity verification for company directors, people with significant control (PSCs) and also for authorised agents. These changes form part of the wider reforms under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, which aims to strengthen trust and transparency in UK corporate structures.
Companies House Identity Verification: Who Needs to Verify?
Under these new rules, the following are legally required to verify their identity with Companies House:
- Directors of UK companies (including non-UK residents)
- Members of LLPs
- PSCs (Persons with Significant Control)
- Anyone authorised to file information on behalf of a company, such as company secretaries or corporate service providers
These obligations apply to both new and existing appointments.
When Will the Companies House Identity Verification Requirements Come into Force?
The identity verification process is being rolled out in several phases:
| Timeline | Requirement |
| From 08 May 2025 | Voluntary identity verification is available for all individuals |
| From 18 November 2025 | Verification becomes mandatory for all new directors, PSCs and also LLP members |
| From 18 November 2025 | It is compulsory for all individuals filing on behalf of companies to also be verified |
| From 18 November 2025 | If you are both a director and a PSC of the same company, you must register separately for each role (using the same personal code). As director, you must provide this in the company’s confirmation statement. As a PSC, you must also provide this separately within 14 days of the confirmation statement date. If you are not a director, but are a PSC of a company, you must provide your code within the first 14 days of your birth month, e.g., where DOB is 18 February, your 14-day period will begin on 1 February. |
Generally, existing officers will be expected to verify their identity when they next submit a confirmation statement.
How to Complete Companies House Identity Verification Yourself
Individuals can complete the process themselves using a GOV.UK One Login.
This can be done on the secure online platform, using:
- A UK passport or photocard driving licence, and;
- Additionally answering security questions online, or:
- Alternative documentation (with additional checks) if no digital ID is available
Once verified, an individual will be issued a unique verification code. This can subsequently be used for future filings.
Why This Matters: Legal and Practical Consequences
Failure to verify identity within the prescribed timeframes will have serious implications:
- Unverified individuals are to be barred from acting as PCSs or directors
- Companies may be unable to submit statutory filings, such as annual confirmation statements or changes to directorship
- Criminal sanctions, including fines and disqualification, may be enforced
These rules are being introduced to reduce fraud, prevent misuse of the register, and also clamp down on illicit company formations using false identities — an issue that has plagued Companies House for years.
Companies House Identity Verification: Actions for Company Officers
To remain compliant and avoid disruption, we recommend that directors and PSCs take the following steps:
- Complete verification early, particularly during the voluntary window before Autumn 2025
- Maintain accurate records of verification codes and ensure they are used in all future filings
- Inform all relevant members of your organisation of the implications of non-compliance and also upcoming deadlines
These measures signal a major shift in how Companies House operates, giving it broader oversight and enforcement powers.
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