Companies House has introduced mandatory identity verification for people who establish, manage or control UK limited companies. The requirement took effect on 18 November 2025 to improve the accuracy of the Companies House register and reduce the misuse of false identities.
However, that date was not the final deadline for everyone. It marked the start of a 12-month transition period, during which directors and people with significant control, known as PSCs, must verify their identities by their individual due dates.
A Major Change for UK Companies
Identity verification is no longer optional for those covered by the rules. Companies House must now confirm that the individuals listed as running or controlling a company are who they claim to be.
This forms part of the wider statutory compliance requirements for UK companies rather than an HMRC rule. The deadline may differ according to the person’s role, whether they are newly appointed and when the company’s next confirmation statement is due.
Directors and PSCs Are in Scope
New directors must verify their identities when setting up a company or being appointed to an existing one. Existing directors must provide their Companies House personal codes when their company submits its next confirmation statement.
PSCs must also complete verification and provide their codes within their assigned periods. Companies should not assume that everyone has the same deadline.
More Than One Route to Verify
Individuals can verify their identity through GOV.UK One Login. Accepted identification includes a biometric passport from any country, a UK photocard driving licence, a UK biometric residence permit, a biometric residence card or a Frontier Worker permit.
Applicants also need their current address and the year they moved there. Each person must use their own GOV.UK One Login with a separate email address. One email address cannot be used to verify several people.
Those without the listed photo identification may be offered another method. Depending on their circumstances, this may involve bank or building society details, a National Insurance number and security questions. Some UK residents may also complete the process through a participating Post Office.
Alternatively, an Authorised Corporate Service Provider, such as a registered accountant or solicitor, may verify an individual using suitable identity documents.
Delays Could Disrupt Company Filings
Anyone who fails to complete the requirements on time may commit an offence. Possible consequences include a financial penalty, a court fine or prosecution.
‘’A company will also be unable to file its confirmation statement unless all its directors are verified.’’
An unverified individual may be prevented from forming a company or being appointed as a new director. Continuing to act as a director after the relevant deadline could place both the individual and the company in breach of the rules.
Act Before Your Due Date
Directors and PSCs should check their deadlines now, collect accepted identification and create their own GOV.UK One Login. A detailed UK statutory compliance checklist can help businesses keep track of important company responsibilities.
After verification, the personal code should be kept secure and connected to every relevant company role.
Expert Guidance from Lanop
Lanop Business & Tax Advisors has established experience supporting UK businesses with statutory compliance, Companies House filings and reporting deadlines. Its knowledgeable team can guide directors and PSCs through the requirements, help identify the deadlines that apply, and explain the available verification routes clearly.
This practical experience makes Lanop a dependable source of professional compliance guidance. Businesses can explore our online accounting services or contact Lanop’s expert team for support in reducing the risk of rejected filings, missed deadlines and unnecessary compliance problems.
