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New Era, New Rules: Mandatory Companies House ID Verification is Here – Are You Ready?
- Dwayne Barnett
- Nov 18, 2025
- 3 min read
Today, 18th November 2025, marks a pivotal moment for all UK companies. The new mandatory identity verification requirements for company directors and People with Significant Control (PSCs) have officially come into force under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA).
For businesses, this is not just another administrative task; it is a fundamental shift in how we establish and maintain trust in the UK corporate landscape. For those individuals who have yet to verify their identity, the time to act is now.
🔎 What is Happening Today?
From today, identity verification is a legal requirement for all:
New company incorporations and appointments of directors/PSCs.
Existing directors and PSCs, who have a 12-month transition period to comply.
This change transforms Companies House from a passive registry into a proactive regulator, aiming to significantly reduce economic crime and fraud by ensuring that the people setting up, running, and controlling companies are genuinely who they say they are.
🔑 The Two Routes to Verification
Companies House has provided two official methods for an individual to verify their identity (as detailed on the official Verify your identity for Companies House (GOV.UK) page):
Directly with Companies House: Using the free GOV.UK One Login service (typically via an app or online security questions).
Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP): This is where our expertise comes in.
While the free service is an option, it is not always straightforward, especially for those without UK photo ID documents or who simply prefer professional assistance. This is where partnering with an ACSP like us offers a significant advantage.
✅ Why Choose an ACSP for Your Verification?
As a Companies House Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), we offer a robust, seamless, and compliant alternative to the direct government service. Our service is designed to remove the administrative burden and ensure a smooth transition for both UK and international officers.
1. Expertise and Assurance
We are registered with a UK Anti-Money Laundering (AML) supervisory body and have been fully authorised by Companies House to carry out these essential checks. You gain peace of mind knowing your compliance is managed by professionals who understand the intricate requirements of ECCTA.
2. A Dedicated Path for Non-UK Residents
The GOV.UK One Login process can be challenging for overseas directors and PSCs. We are perfectly positioned to handle the verification for non-UK residents, accepting a wider range of international identity documents and often using a fully digital process.
3. End-to-End Compliance Management
Once verified through us, the process doesn't end. We can manage the seamless filing of your Companies House Personal Code and the necessary verification statement with Companies House for each of your company roles, ensuring all your filings—including the upcoming Confirmation Statement—are accepted without delay.
4. Avoiding Penalties and Disruptions
Failure to comply with the new ID verification deadlines is a serious offence, with consequences ranging from rejected filings and financial penalties to director disqualification and even company strike-off. We ensure you meet your deadlines well within the 12-month transition period, safeguarding your business from these severe risks.
➡️ Your Next Step: Get Verified Today
The 12-month transition period for existing officers may seem generous, but with millions of people requiring verification, delays are inevitable. We strongly recommend that all directors and PSCs act immediately.
Don't leave your compliance to the last minute. Partner with us today to secure your Companies House Personal Code and ensure your business remains compliant and trustworthy in this new regulatory environment.
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