Identity verification requirements

The UK is introducing significant changes to corporate compliance through new identity verification requirements. Set to take effect in Autumn 2025, these reforms will require key individuals involved with UK companies and other registered entities to provide photo ID and other personal information to Companies House.

Who will need to verify their identity?

• All directors, including those of overseas companies with UK branches or establishments.
• People with significant control (PSCs), including relevant officers of registrable legal entities.
• Individuals who file information at Companies House on behalf of entities.
• Members of Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs).
• Relevant officers of corporate entities acting as general partners of Limited Partnerships.

The verification process

Individuals will have two routes available for identity verification:

1. Direct verification through Companies House (via their web service, through a dedicated Companies House App or in-person at a UK Post Office).

This direct verification route is free of charge but requires internet access, registration as a Companies House Service user and the provision of certain personal information. The Companies House App will require users to take a photo as part of the verification process.

2. Through a third party provider known as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), who will charge for their verification services.

The verification documents

The UK Government has published detailed requirements for identity documentation needed for the verification process. These requirements may differ depending on whether verification is conducted directly with Companies House or through an ACSP.

Following successful verification

Individuals will receive an email from Companies House confirming their verification date and unique verification code. These codes must be stored securely as they will be required for future appointments and filings with Companies House.

When using the Companies House direct verification method, it's recommended to take a photo of the acknowledgment page at the end of the process.

It's important to note that verification codes will not be visible on the public register, and ACSPs will not receive this information directly.

When are these changes taking effect?

While the exact implementation date has not been confirmed, the new requirements are expected to come into force in Autumn 2025. The timeline for compliance will depend on whether a company is newly incorporating or already established.

• For new companies, directors must verify their identity before incorporation and PSCs within a short period after incorporation.
• Existing companies will need to confirm completion of all identity verification required in their next confirmation statement.

Consequences of non-compliance

Failing to verify when required to do so will have various consequences – for the individual, company and its directors. Specifically for directors, it will be a criminal offence for individuals to act as such while unverified. And companies will commit a criminal offence if they allow unverified directors to act.

What companies need to do

• Identify and communicate with affected individuals within your organisation who will need to complete verification. Companies with international directors will need to plan carefully to ensure verification can be completed efficiently.
• Ensure they prepare the required documentation based on the published ID evidence requirements.
• Determine which route (direct or ACSP) is most appropriate for each individual.
• Check when your organisation’s confirmation statement(s) are next due to be filed. If they are due in the Autumn, consider voluntary identity verification over the Summer to ensure such statements can be filed on time.
• Develop clear procedures for securely collecting and managing verification codes.
• Provide verification codes for all directors, PSCs and other relevant individuals to your company secretarial team or service provider.
• Update company policies to reflect the new verification requirements and ensure ongoing compliance, particularly when appointing directors and if there are changes in company ownership.

Conclusion

The introduction of identity verification requirements marks a significant shift in UK corporate compliance. If you have any queries about this new regime and next steps, please do get in touch. For ease of reference, we have also published this quick reference guide on identity verification which can be shared with your wider business.

For more information about the wider company law reforms being introduced, please visit our Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency hub, which includes a timeline of upcoming changes based on published Government guidance.

This publication is intended for general guidance and represents our understanding of the relevant law and practice as at May 2025. Specific advice should be sought for specific cases. For more information see our terms and conditions.