New Companies House Identity Verification Requirements: What You Need to Know

The UK government is implementing significant changes to company registration and governance through the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. One of the most important changes now rolling out is the new identity verification requirement for company directors and persons with significant control (PSCs).

What's happening?

Companies House is introducing mandatory identity verification for all directors and PSCs as part of broader efforts to combat economic crime and improve corporate transparency. If you're a company director or PSC, you may have already received correspondence from Companies House about this new requirement.

The verification process will be rolled out gradually, with all directors needing to verify their identities over the next cycle of annual Confirmation Statements. In some cases, verification will be required earlier, such as for new director appointments or company incorporations.

How does the verification process work?

The good news is that the verification process is free and designed to be straightforward. Here's what you need to know:

Online verification via GOV.UK One Login

The primary method is through the GOV.UK One Login service, which requires:

• A current UK passport or UK photo driving licence (biometric permits are also accepted)

• A smartphone

• The ability to complete facial recognition matching against your photo ID

The process involves allowing the software to match your likeness to your official photo identification, creating a secure digital verification of your identity.

Alternative options

If you don't have the required photographic identification, you may still be able to verify online using bank or building society details. To check if this option is available to you, visit the official guidance at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/verify-your-identity-for-companies-house

For those who cannot complete online verification, in-person verification at participating Post Offices may be possible. Again, check the official guidance to confirm this route is available for your circumstances.

What happens after verification?

Once you've successfully completed the verification process, Companies House will provide you with a personal verification code. This code is important for several reasons:

• It confirms your verified status with Companies House

• It may be required for future company filings and registrations

• You should keep it secure, treating it like any other personal identification code

If you work with accountants, solicitors, or other professional advisers who handle company filings on your behalf, they may need a copy of your verification code for their records. If you're a client of ours, please do share your code with your account manager.

Why is this important?

This new requirement is part of the government's broader strategy to:

• Reduce corporate fraud and economic crime

• Improve transparency in company ownership and control

• Strengthen the integrity of the UK's corporate register

• Align with international best practices for corporate governance

The verification process is expected to become mandatory for all relevant individuals later this year, making early compliance advisable.

Getting help

As this is a new process, some users may encounter technical difficulties or have questions about the requirements. If you experience issues:

• First, consult the official guidance at GOV.UK

• Contact Companies House directly for technical support

• Seek advice from your professional advisers if you're unsure about the requirements. Our team are happy to support on this process

Key takeaways

• Identity verification is becoming mandatory for all company directors and PSCs

• The process is free and primarily conducted online

• You'll receive a personal verification code that should be kept secure

• This is part of important anti-fraud and transparency measures

• Early compliance is recommended as the requirement will become mandatory

The UK government's commitment to tackling economic crime through improved corporate transparency represents a significant step forward in business regulation. While the new verification requirements may seem like an additional administrative burden, they play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and trustworthiness of the UK's business environment.

For the most up-to-date information and detailed guidance, always refer to the official Companies House resources and GOV.UK guidance pages, or contact our expert team for support.