Companies House Identity Verification Starts November 2025
Rollout Overview
From 18 November 2025, a mandatory identity verification regime under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 will come into force for all new directors and Persons with Significant Control (PSCs) of UK companies
This phased rollout will span 12 months, culminating in mid‑November 2026, and will affect an estimated 6 to 7 million individuals
Who Must Verify and When?
New Appointments:
New directors: Must complete verification before incorporation or appointment.
New PSCs: Must verify their identity within 14 days of registration with Companies House
Existing Directors & PSCs (Transition Period):
Existing directors: Must confirm they are verified when filing their next annual confirmation statement within the 12-month window
Existing PSCs:
If also a director: Verify within 14 days of the company’s confirmation statement date.
If not a director: Verify within 14 days of the first day of their birth month, as displayed in the register
How to Verify
GOV.UK One Login: Free and typically swift, complete the process via passport or photo driving licence, and receive a personal code to submit in relevant filings
Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs): Such as accountants or solicitors, can verify on behalf of directors or PSCs
Importance of Early Compliance
Avoid offence: Acting as a director without verified identity after the deadline constitutes a legal offence. Similarly, a PSC failing to comply is individually liable
Guard against fraud: This initiative enhances the reliability of the companies register, deters misuse, and bolsters public and investor confidence
Over 300,000 individuals have already completed voluntary verification since April 2025, early adopters will benefit from smoother compliance
Beware of unnecessary fees: While verification can take mere minutes via GOV.UK One Login, some third parties charge £45–£250, which clients can avoid by opting to self‑verify
Action Plan for Your Company
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Audit: Identify all current and future directors or PSCs. |
| 2 | Communicate: Inform stakeholders about the timeline and requirements. |
| 3 | Plan Verification: Decide whether to verify direct or via your firm as ACSP. |
| 4 | Monitor: Track confirmation statement dates and PSC birth months to meet deadlines. |
| 5 | Support: Offer assistance for overseas individuals with extra documentation needs. |
Final Word
This transition marks a vital step in fortifying the UK’s corporate landscape. As an accountancy firm, we are well-placed to guide businesses through this change, ensuring timely, compliant, and seamless identity verification.
Curious how to get set up with One Login or streamline verification for overseas directors? Just let us know, we’re here to help.
