Companies House has confirmed that mandatory identity verification for directors and persons with significant control (PSCs) will begin from 18 November 2025. Businesses should prepare now to ensure compliance.
Who needs to verify and when?
Individuals can verify now. Once verified they will receive a personal code. Each individual will only need to verify their identity once, regardless of how many roles they hold. However, the timing of when they must provide their personal code depends on their role and circumstances and it may be necessary to provide the code multiple times:
Role |
Deadline to provide personal code |
|
Existing directors |
When filing the next confirmation statement due on or after 18 November 2025 |
|
New director appointments |
At the point of appointment or incorporation |
|
Existing PSCs who are also directors of the same company |
As a director (via the confirmation statement) and separately as a PSC within 14 days of the confirmation statement date |
|
Existing PSCs who are not also directors of the same company |
Within the first 14 days of their birth month (e.g. if born on 22 January, the 14 day window starts on 1 January) |
|
New PSC registrations |
Within 14 days of being registered as a PSC |
It is also expected that individual members of LLPs will need to verify their identity from 18 November 2025. Verification for other roles, such as corporate directors, corporate members of LLPs, officers of corporate PSCs and persons submitting filings to Companies House, will become mandatory at a later date.
How to verify
For most individuals, the quickest and easiest way to verify is via the GOV.UK One Login service. This service is free. Persons based overseas or without biometric identity documents may need to use an Authorised Corporate Service Provider to complete verification. Businesses with a large number of individuals who need to verify may also prefer to use an ACSP to manage the process.
Practical steps for businesses
To ensure smooth compliance, we recommend the following:
- audit your records: Identify all directors, PSC and LLP members across your group and confirm who has already verified their identity.
- encourage early verification: Companies House has indicated that it will enable individuals to check due dates for all their roles. However, early action is strongly advised to avoid missed deadlines, offences and fines
- update onboarding processes: Incorporate identity verification into director appointment workflows
- prepare for confirmation statements: Ensure you are ready to include personal codes in confirmation statements from 18 November
- support overseas individuals: If you have directors or PSCs based abroad who do not have biometric identity documents, consider engaging an Authorised Corporate Service Provider now to avoid delays
If you have any questions about the new requirements or need support with navigating the changes, please contact our Company Secretarial team.
Disclaimer
This information is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is recommended that specific professional advice is sought before acting on any of the information given. Please contact us for specific advice on your circumstances. © Shoosmiths LLP 2025.