Mandatory Director Verification in the United Kingdom

Mandatory Director Verification in the United Kingdom

Starting 18 November 2025, new identity verification rules will apply to all companies registered with Companies House in the United Kingdom. Directors, partners, and persons with significant control (PSCs) will be required to complete identity verification in order for the company to submit its annual confirmation statement.

These requirements are part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 and aim to improve the transparency and integrity of UK-registered entities.

Who must verify their identity?

The verification requirement applies to individuals holding key roles in UK-registered companies:

• For private limited companies (LTD) – all directors and PSCs;
• For limited liability partnerships (LLP) – all members (partners) and PSCs;
• For public limited companies (PLC) – directors and PSCs;
• For community interest companies (CIC) and charitable companies – directors and PSCs (if applicable);
• For dormant companies – verification is still required for responsible persons, despite lack of business activity.

Deadline for verification

There will be a 12-month transition period starting from 18 November 2025.

Each company must ensure that all relevant individuals complete verification before the due date of the first confirmation statement filed after this date.

For newly registered companies or individuals appointed as directors, partners, or PSCs after 18 November 2025, identity verification will be required prior to registration or appointment.

How does verification work?

There are two available methods:

1. Via GOV.UK One Login (free, online)
Individuals verify their identity by submitting a photo ID (passport, BRP, driving licence) and a live selfie via mobile app or web portal. A personal verification code is issued upon approval.

2. Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)
Verification can also be completed via an approved UK-based agent (accountant, solicitor or AML-regulated provider). This is particularly useful for non-UK residents. The ACSP submits confirmation directly to Companies House. Fees may apply.

Submitting documents by post or email directly to Companies House is not allowed.

What is a personal verification code?

This is a unique code confirming that an individual has passed identity verification. It will be required in each company’s confirmation statement for every applicable role.

If the same individual holds multiple roles across different companies, the same code is used — but must be declared for each role separately.

What happens if verification is not completed?

• The company will be unable to file its confirmation statement;
• It will be blocked from appointing new directors, members or PSCs;
• It may face penalties or removal (strike-off) from the Companies House register.

How FINANCEIQ HUB LTD can assist

We support UK-registered companies in preparing for and complying with the new verification requirements:

🔹 Verification planning
We help identify who in your company must be verified, and by what date, based on your reporting cycle.

🔹 ACSP-based verification
We work with authorised UK agents to handle identity checks, especially useful for individuals outside the UK or without access to GOV.UK login.

🔹 Review and correction of Companies House records
We verify that your director and PSC data is accurate, including date of birth and legal names, to avoid verification delays.

Need support? Get in touch — we’ll help you prepare your company and ensure a smooth transition to the new rules.