Companies House is implementing a significant step forward in corporate transparency with the launch of a new identity verification process.
This phased rollout aims to strengthen trust in the UK business environment by ensuring that individuals associated with companies are who they claim to be.
From directors and people with significant control (PSCs) to those acting on behalf of companies, this verification system plays a central role in supporting the UK’s wider efforts against economic crime and corporate misuse.
This guide explores what the identity verification process is, who it applies to, how it works, and what steps must be followed to meet the new legal obligations.
Let’s walk through the essential aspects of the Companies House identity verification launch to prepare individuals and professionals for a smooth transition.
What is Companies House Identity Verification?
Companies House identity verification is a new requirement introduced as part of UK company law reform.
It is designed to deter individuals from misusing companies for illegal purposes by ensuring that those setting up, managing, or controlling companies are genuine.
The process involves individuals confirming their identity through approved channels to prove that they are who they say they are.
This measure aims to reduce fraud, boost corporate transparency, and maintain public trust in the UK business register.
Key Points
- Identity verification will apply to all individuals involved in forming, running, or controlling companies in the UK.
- Verification can be completed online through GOV.UK One Login or via an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).
- Once verified, individuals will receive a Companies House personal code used for future filings and appointments.
This initiative is part of a broader government strategy to make the UK one of the most transparent and fraud-resistant economies in the world.
Why Has Companies House Introduced Identity Verification?
The introduction of identity verification is rooted in the need to combat financial crime, enhance accountability, and ensure the reliability of information on the Companies House register.
The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act underpins these changes, aiming to curb fraud and prevent the misuse of corporate structures.
The verification requirement will:
- Reduce the risk of fraudulent appointments and company formations.
- Ensure that only verified individuals can take on company roles.
- Increase the reliability of corporate data on the public register.
- Improve trust in the UK as a place to do business.
The new process targets those who might attempt to hide behind false identities, and it strengthens the overall security of business operations in the UK.
Who Needs to Verify Their Identity with Companies House?
From April 2025, identity verification will apply to a broad range of individuals associated with UK companies. Initially, verification is voluntary but will later become a legal requirement for several roles.
Individuals required to verify include:
- Directors
- Persons with significant control (PSCs)
- Individuals filing on behalf of a company (such as company secretaries)
- Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs)
- Members of Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs)
- General partners and managing officers
Verification is not a one-time-only requirement for some. For example, when a new role is taken or when Companies House requests it, verification may need to be updated or redone.
What Information Is Required for Identity Verification?
To begin the verification process, individuals must provide specific personal information and supporting documentation. This information helps ensure the verification process meets Companies House’s rigorous identity standards.
Required personal information:
- Full name (including any former names)
- Date of birth
- Current home address
- Address history (for the past 12 months)
- Email address
Providing accurate and current information is crucial to successfully completing the process. Inaccuracies or missing details may result in failed verification attempts.
When Companies House Identity Verification Launch?
The Companies House identity verification process will be rolled out in stages, beginning in 2025.
Key dates to note:
- 18 March 2025: AML-supervised businesses (such as accountants and solicitors) can begin applying to become Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs).
- 8 April 2025: Voluntary identity verification becomes available to individuals through GOV.UK One Login or via an ACSP.
- Autumn 2025: Identity verification becomes mandatory for all relevant roles.
These timelines give businesses and individuals sufficient time to prepare and understand their responsibilities.
It’s important to stay up to date with Companies House announcements to ensure compliance when the rules become enforceable.
How Can Individuals Verify Their Identity?
There are multiple routes available for individuals to verify their identity. Each method requires the use of secure personal identification and follows a consistent verification standard.
1. Online Verification via GOV.UK One Login
The online method uses ID documentation and follows a step-by-step process that can be completed through a browser or mobile app.
Acceptable photo ID includes:
- Biometric passport (any country)
- UK photocard driving licence
- UK Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
- UK Biometric Residence Card (BRC)
- UK Frontier Worker permit
This method is secure, fast, and free. It’s suitable for most UK residents with proper ID.
2. In-Person Verification at a Post Office
If online access is not possible, individuals in the UK may verify their identity at a Post Office. This route is coordinated through the GOV.UK One Login service.
3. Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)
Individuals may also verify through ACSPs such as:
- Company formation agents
- Solicitors
- Accountants
- Chartered secretaries
These professionals are supervised under anti-money laundering regulations and can conduct identity checks on behalf of Companies House.
What Are the Methods Available for Identity Verification?
Companies House allows two specific methods for verifying identity depending on whether cryptographic document-checking technology is used.
Option 1: Using Identification Document Validation Technology (IDVT)
This method allows the use of a single document, provided it has cryptographic features and is validated using IDVT.
Acceptable documents include:
- Biometric or machine-readable passport (up to 6 months expired)
- Photocard driving licence (UK, EU, Channel Islands)
- EU identity card with biometric info
- UK biometric residence documents
Option 2: Manual Document Checks by a Person
If no technology is used, two documents must be provided:
- Two from Group A, or
- One from Group A and one from Group B
Group A examples:
- Valid or recently expired passport
- Photographic immigration document
- UK driving licence
- Veteran Card or Forces ID
Group B examples:
- Birth or adoption certificate
- Utility bills or council tax statement
- Mortgage or rental agreement
Manual document verification must be done by someone trained in detecting false documentation. Both options require all steps in the identity check process to be completed.
What Happens If Someone Fails to Verify Their Identity?
Failure to verify identity has significant implications, especially once the requirement becomes mandatory in autumn 2025.
If verification fails:
- Individuals cannot file with Companies House
- New companies or roles cannot be registered
- Individuals may face legal consequences including financial penalties
Records of all failed verification attempts must be retained for seven years by the verifying party. Companies House will not process filings from unverified individuals after the mandatory deadline.
It is the individual’s responsibility to ensure they provide accurate documentation and complete the process on time.
Are There Exceptions to Companies House Identity Verification?
While the new regulations are comprehensive, certain specifics are still under review. However, the general rule is that everyone in a relevant company role will be expected to verify their identity, regardless of whether they live in the UK or overseas.
Important considerations:
- Overseas individuals must provide at least one government-issued document
- Verification is still required even if an identity document has expired, within set limits
- No exceptions currently apply for casual or informal company roles
Companies House may offer future guidance on rare or complex scenarios. For now, the safest assumption is that anyone forming, controlling, or managing a company will need to complete identity verification.
What Are the Security and Privacy Measures in Place?
Security is a key element of the identity verification process. GOV.UK One Login uses industry-standard encryption and security protocols to protect user information.
Key privacy protections:
- Personal codes are unique and must only be shared with trusted individuals
- Documents are stored securely and not shared publicly
- Information is retained only as long as necessary for verification and compliance
Additionally, ACSPs must be registered with a UK anti-money laundering supervisory body and meet the same standards as Companies House for data handling.
What Does This Mean for UK Business Owners Moving Forward?
The introduction of identity verification is a game-changer for how companies operate in the UK. It promotes accountability and ensures that only real, verified individuals can be associated with UK-registered entities.
Moving forward, business owners must:
- Understand their verification obligations
- Ensure they or their authorised agents complete the process correctly
- Safeguard their Companies House personal code
- Prepare to file only through verified channels
Verification will soon be a legal necessity, so now is the time to prepare, understand the process, and ensure all records are in order.
Conclusion
The Companies House identity verification launch in 2025 marks a major shift in the UK’s approach to corporate regulation and transparency.
This structured rollout ensures that all company officers, from directors to authorised agents, are identifiable and accountable.
While the process may seem complex at first, it is a necessary evolution to prevent fraud, enhance public trust, and modernise business governance.
With several methods to complete verification and clear guidance available, compliance is well within reach for all professionals involved in company administration. Start early, understand your role, and be ready to embrace this new era of corporate legitimacy.
FAQs
What is a Companies House personal code?
A Companies House personal code is a unique identifier issued to individuals once their identity has been verified. It is used to link them to official company roles and must be kept secure.
Can I verify my identity if I live outside the UK?
Yes, you can verify your identity from abroad. However, you must provide at least one government-issued document, and you may need to use an ACSP registered in the UK.
How long does the verification process take?
Verification via GOV.UK One Login is usually quick and can be completed in minutes if all documents are ready. ACSP verification may take longer depending on their internal processes.
What if I don’t have the required ID documents?
If you do not have acceptable documents, you may be unable to complete the verification. You must obtain valid documents or speak with an ACSP to explore available options.
Do I need to verify my identity every year?
Generally, no. You will only need to verify once unless Companies House asks you to repeat the process or your role in the company changes significantly.
Is there a cost to verify my identity?
Verification via GOV.UK One Login is free. However, if you use an ACSP, they may charge a service fee depending on the provider.
What happens if an ACSP fails to meet the required standards?
If an ACSP fails to verify identities to the required standard, Companies House may suspend or revoke their status as an authorised agent, preventing them from acting on behalf of companies.