The UK government has introduced a new legal requirement for all company directors to verify their identity with Companies House, with the process supported through HMRC-linked digital checks. This marks one of the biggest changes to UK company law in decades, aimed at improving transparency and tackling economic crime.

🏛️ Why Identity Verification Is Being Introduced

The new rules form part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA), designed to strengthen the accuracy of the Companies House register and prevent UK companies from being misused for fraud or money‑laundering.
Companies House states that identity verification is now a legal requirement for anyone who sets up, runs, owns, or controls a UK company.

👤 Who Must Verify

The requirement applies to:

• All company directors
• People with Significant Control (PSCs)
• Anyone filing on behalf of a company

From 18 November 2025, identity verification becomes mandatory, with a 12‑month transition period for existing directors to complete the process.

🕒 When Directors Need to Verify

• New directors must verify their identity before their appointment is filed at Companies House.
• Existing directors must verify before submitting their first confirmation statement after 18 November 2025.

🔍 How Verification Works

Directors will verify their identity using GOV.UK One Login, which links to government services including HMRC. This ensures a secure, unified method for confirming identity across departments.
Once verified, directors receive a Companies House personal code, which must be used when filing company information.

⚠️ What Happens If Directors Don’t Verify

Failure to verify identity may result in:

• Inability to file statutory documents
• Potential civil penalties
• Possible criminal sanctions for persistent non‑compliance

Companies House emphasises that verification is essential to maintain an accurate and trustworthy register.

📝 What This Means for Businesses

For most directors, the process will be straightforward and completed online. However, companies should:

• Ensure all directors and PSCs are aware of the new requirement
• Update internal compliance processes
• Prepare for the new confirmation statement obligations

This change represents a major step toward a more transparent corporate environment, reducing the risk of fraud and improving trust in UK businesses.

If you need help verifying your identity, please contact us and our team will be pleased to help.