In line with the UK government’s ongoing efforts to enhance corporate transparency and tackle economic crime, significant changes are being introduced under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. From 18 November 2025, all new and existing company directors and people with significant control (PSC) will need to verify their identity with Companies House.
The verification process is designed to be completed once per individual, irrespective of how many companies they are associated with. Upon successful verification, each individual will be issued a unique Companies House personal code, which must be used in all future filings. This initiative is intended to prevent fraudulent appointments and ensure that those in positions of control within UK companies are properly identified and accountable.
Verification Deadlines
Category
Verification Deadline
New appointments as directors, PSCs and LLP members
Must verify before being appointed to a company or LLP
Existing directors/LLP members
Must verify before filing their next confirmation statement after 18 November 2025
Existing PSCs (who are not directors)
Must verify within 14 days of the start of their next birth month after 18 November 2025
The rollout of these changes will occur in stages. Voluntary identity verification became available on 8 April 2025, allowing individuals to begin the process ahead of the mandatory deadlines . From 18 November 2025, verification will become compulsory for all new appointments and company incorporations. A 12-month transition period will follow, during which existing directors and PSCs must complete the verification process. By spring 2026, identity verification will be mandatory for all individuals submitting filings to Companies House, regardless of their role or the nature of the filing.
There are three approved methods for completing identity verification. Individuals may verify their identity online via the GOV.UK One Login system, which uses biometric technology to match a photo ID with a live image. Alternatively, verification can be carried out in person at designated UK post offices.
Failure to comply with the new identity verification requirements will carry serious consequences. It will be a criminal offence to act as a director or PSC without having completed the verification process. Companies may also be held liable if they permit unverified individuals to hold key roles. Financial penalties will apply, with fines ranging from £250 to £2,000 depending on the severity and frequency of the breach. In cases of ongoing non-compliance, daily penalties may be imposed. Persistent failure to comply may result in disqualification from directorship, and unverified individuals will be barred from submitting filings to Companies House. This could lead to rejected documents, delays in processing, or even the company being struck off the register.
