Identity Verification at Companies House: What It Means for You
New ID rules for directors, PSCs and company filers. Here’s what you need to know.
Introduction
As part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, the UK government is introducing a new identity verification (IDV) regime. This is a key move to improve corporate transparency and fight financial crime. From April 2025, many individuals associated with UK companies will need to verify their identity. While the rollout is phased, the time to prepare is now.
Who Must Verify?
The following people will need to complete IDV:
All directors, LLP members, general partners and managing officers
Persons with Significant Control (PSCs)
Anyone filing documents on behalf of a company (e.g. company secretaries)
Anyone being newly appointed to one of these roles
This applies to both new and existing positions.
Key Dates to Know
8 April 2025 Voluntary identity verification opens
Autumn 2025 Verification required for all new incorporations
Autumn 2025 – Autumn 2026 Transitional period for existing directors/PSCs (must verify before company’s next confirmation statement)
Spring 2026 Mandatory for all Companies House filers
How to Verify
Option 1: Direct via GOV.UK One Login (Free)
Use one of the following routes:
ID Check app – photo ID + facial scan
Web portal – answer security questions (UK documents only)
Post Office – in-person check with photo ID
Accepted ID includes:
Biometric passport (any country)
UK driving licence
UK residence permits/cards
UK Frontier Worker permit
Option 2: Through an ACSP
An Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) is a vetted firm, such as Upstreamly, authorised by Companies House to verify identities on its behalf. The ACSP would obtain the necessary documents from you and will conduct the verification process. Once completed the ACSP will confirm to Companies House that the verification was conducted and passed successfully.
After Verification
Each person will receive a personal code. This will be needed to:
Submit filings
Be appointed to a company role
Stay compliant with the register
This is a one-time process, but the code must be kept safe.
What Happens If You Don’t Comply?
You can’t file documents at Companies House
Your incorporation may be rejected
You may face criminal penalties and fines
Risk of director disqualification
Company flagged as non-compliant (could affect funding, insurance and trust)
What You Should Do Now
We recommend:
Inform directors, PSCs and company secretaries now
Decide whether to use direct verification or an ACSP
Make sure ID documents are up to date and accurate
For large structures, phase the approach by group or business line
Need Help?
As stated above, Upstreamly can conduct the process on your behalf. Please contact your account manager or call us on 020 3340 8421 for more information.