From autumn 2025, all company directors and people with significant control (PSCs) will be legally required to verify their identity with Companies House. This is part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, aimed at preventing the misuse of UK companies for illegal activities.
🔍 What’s Changing?
- Identity verification will become mandatory for:
- Company directors
- People with significant control (PSCs)
- Anyone filing on behalf of a company
- This applies to existing and new directors, including those based outside the UK.
✅ How to Verify Your Identity
You can verify your identity in one of three ways:
-
Online via GOV.UK One Login
Use a valid photo ID (passport, UK driving licence, etc.)
👉 Verify online -
In person at selected UK Post Offices
Only available to UK residents.
👉 Check eligibility -
Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)
For example, your accountant or solicitor (must be registered with Companies House).
* Good news: As your accountant, we will be registered as an ACSP by Autumn 2025, so you’ll be able to verify your identity directly through us.
🧾 What Happens Next?
Verification is a two-step process:
- Verify your identity and receive a personal Companies House code.
- From autumn 2025, link your verified identity to each company role you hold using that code.
🔄 Check Your Details
Make sure your personal information (e.g. date of birth) matches what’s on the Companies House register.
👉 Check your company details
If anything is incorrect, update it as soon as possible. Some changes can be made online, while others may require a paper form.
📬 Stay Informed
Keep up to date with the latest changes to UK company law:
👉 Changes to UK company law