GlossaryUK
What is Companies House identity verification?
Identity verification for directors and PSCs
Short answer
Companies House identity verification means a UK company’s directors and PSCs prove their identity to Companies House and receive a personal code. It has been a legal requirement since 18 November 2025.
Explained
From 18 November 2025 new directors verify their identity before acting as a director, and incorporations need each director’s Companies House personal code. Existing directors give their code in the company’s next confirmation statement, and PSCs have set 14-day windows.
You can verify online through GOV.UK One Login, using documents such as a biometric passport from any country, or through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) registered with Companies House. You only verify once, and verifying online is free.
Good to know
- Verification is personal: no one can verify using someone else’s identity, so never share your identity details.
- In future, anyone filing with Companies House for others will also need to be registered as an authorised agent.
- Prosecutions have started for non-compliance; there is no option to opt out.
Official sources
- GOV.UK — Verify your identity for Companies House
- GOV.UK — When you need to verify your identity for Companies House
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This page is general information, not legal or tax advice. Rules change; check the official source for the latest position or talk to us.
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