UK Companies House: Identity Verification Now Required for Directors and PSCs

As part of the UK’s ongoing efforts to improve corporate transparency, Companies House has introduced a new legal requirement for all company directors and persons with significant control (PSCs) to verify their identity.

This requirement forms part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 and will become mandatory from autumn 2025. However, early verification is strongly encouraged to avoid delays or disruptions to your company’s filings.

What you need to know:

• Identity verification will be required for all directors and PSCs of UK companies.
• Verification can be completed online, in person (UK residents only), or via an authorised agent.
• Once verified, individuals will receive a personal code to link their identity to each company role they hold.

New incorporations and appointments

From autumn 2025, identity verification will be mandatory at the point of incorporation or appointment.

• New companies cannot be incorporated unless all proposed directors and PSCs have verified their identity.
• Individuals appointed to an existing company must verify their identity within 14 days of appointment.

Existing directors and PSCs

A 12-month transition period will begin in autumn 2025, during which all existing directors and PSCs must complete identity verification.

• Verification must be completed in line with the company’s confirmation statement filing date.
• Individuals who fail to verify within this period will be unable to continue acting in their roles.

Important: Non-compliance with identity verification

Failure to complete identity verification within the required timeframe will constitute a criminal offence. Directors and PSCs who do not comply will be unable to file statutory documents, including the company’s confirmation statement. This may result in financial penalties and restrictions on forming new companies.

We recommend that all officers begin the verification process as soon as possible. Directors based outside the UK should allow additional time if using an authorised agent.

For more information, view the official Companies House guidance.

Please contact your usual Marbury relationship manager or infor@marburys.com for further guidance about the ongoing obligations of your UK company.