As part of the government’s continued efforts to tackle economic crime and improve corporate transparency, Companies House has started introducing a legal requirement for directors, people with significant control (PSCs), and anyone who files information on behalf of a company to verify their identity.

New Requirement: Identity Verification with Companies House – What you need to know

This new process forms part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 and is gradually being rolled out from 2025. While it is not mandatory for all company offices to complete this process immediately, we strongly advise you to start acting on instructions provided by Companies House. Getting ahead of these requirements will ensure your company remains compliant and avoids any potential delays or restrictions in the future.

What does this mean for you? 

As a company director, or a person with significant control, you will need to prove your identity directly to Companies House.

The identity verification process is intended to be completed directly by each individual. As this falls outside the scope of the services we provide, we recommend that you complete the verification using the instructions provided by Companies House.

Once you verify your identity,  you will receive a unique 12-digit Companies House ID verification code, which will allow us – as your appointed agent – to continue making filings on your behalf.

How to Complete the Identity Verification

To complete the verification process, follow the steps below. It is a straightforward digital process that typically takes just a few minutes.

• Step 1: Visit the Companies House identity verification services – use the official GOV.UK service
• Step 2: Sign in or create a GOV.UK One Login account
  • This is a standalone authentication platform – not the same as your previous or other Government Gateways.
• Step 3: Identify verification options. Depending on your device and ID, you’ll be guided to:
  • Use the GOV.UK One Login app, or
  • Use the browser-based route, or
  • Fulfil verification in person at the Post Office
• Step 4: Using the GOV.UK One Login app (preferred method)
  • The system recommends the app for seamless experience
  • You’ll scan your ID (passport, driving licence, BRP/BRC) and take a selfie via the app
  • If preferred, you can instead answer security questions online or visit a Post Office for in-person verification
• Step 5: Receive Personal Verification Code
  • After successful verification, you’ll be issued a Companies House personal code, which is unique to you – not the company
  • From 18th November 2025, this code will be required when filing your next confirmation statement (if you’re an existing director) or upon appointment/incorporation (for new directors/PSCs)
  • You would need to share this code with your agent (like us) so filings can continue smoothly.

What you need to do next

Once you have received your verification code, please email it to your account management team so we can use it when it becomes mandatory for filing documents and acting on your behalf at Companies House. Without this code, we may be restricted from performing certain filings or updates related to your company.

Need help? 

While we cannot complete the verification process on your behalf, we are here to guide you through any questions you may have about the steps involved.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions regarding this.