Identity verification to become mandatory for UK company directors

Joanne Stronach, incoming Managing Director provides an update.

From 18th November 2025, the government will introduce mandatory identity verification (IDV) for company directors, under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. This is part of a string of reforms aiming to enhance transparency within the UK’s corporate registers and tackle economic crime.

Who needs to verify?

Company directors, Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) members and Persons with Significant Control (PSCs) must verify their identity with Companies House.

The government’s online portal for verification has been open since April 2025 for voluntary submissions. From 18th November, this process becomes compulsory for all relevant parties.

What are the deadlines for IDV?

After completing IDV through Companies House, individuals will be provided with an 11-character identifier code. The code is assigned to them personally and not to the company.

• Existing directors will need to provide their codes as part of the company’s first confirmation statement that falls after 18th November. Practically, directors will need to have completed IDV in advance of this filing.
• Existing PSCs who are also directors of the company will need to provide their code with the confirmation statement (as above) and as a PSC within 14 days of the due date of the company’s confirmation statement.
• Existing PSCs who are not directors of the company will need to provide their code within a 14-day period starting from the first day of their month of birth. For example, if their date of birth is 5th March 1980, the 14-day period will start on 1st March 2026.
• New directors will need to provide their code as part of the appointment process or incorporation process if creating a new company.

Companies must not permit any individual to act as a director until their identity has been verified. Failure to comply will constitute a criminal offence.

How does verification work?

Individuals can verify their identity directly with Companies House through the GOV.UK One Login service, using one of three channels:

• The ID Check app, which requires photo ID (e.g., UK passport) and a facial scan
• The web portal, by answering online security questions
• In person, at a Post Office branch offering in-branch verification (photo ID required)

Individuals unable to verify their identity directly through Companies House, may use an Authorised Service Provider (ACSP), such as an accountant, legal adviser, or company formation agent to complete the process on their behalf.

Other changes coming in from 18^th November

Companies will no longer be required to maintain their own statutory registers for directors, directors’ residential addresses, secretaries or PSCs, as all necessary details will be submitted directly to Companies House.

What should companies do now?

UK companies should act now to ensure that everything is completed before the deadlines.

• Review your current directors, LLP members, and PSCs to ensure everyone is aware of the new IDV requirements and deadlines.
• Decide whether to complete the verification directly or through an ACSP.
• Update your onboarding process to ensure new directors complete IDV promptly.

If you need advice or support on how to navigate these new regulations to ensure your business remains compliant, contact our Business Services Team on 01228 516666 or click here to send an email.