Identity verification requirements at Companies House are now being introduced, and the timeline is now clear.

If you are a director, person with significant control (PSC), or involved in managing a UK entity, these changes will affect how and when you meet your statutory obligations.

What’s changed?

From 18 November 2025, identity verification became a legal requirement under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. This will not be a single deadline, but the start of a 12-month transition period, during which existing directors and PSCs will need to complete verification in line with their individual timelines.

For new appointments, the position will be stricter. Any new director or PSC will need to complete identity verification before they can be appointed.

What does this mean in practice?

• Existing directors and PSCs must verify their identity during the transition period (typically aligned with their next Confirmation Statement) 
• New directors and PSCs must be verified in advance of appointment 
• Companies will not be able to complete certain filings – such as Confirmation Statements – unless all relevant individuals are verified 
• Failing to comply may result in penalties, rejected filings, or restrictions on company activity 

Once verification is complete, individuals receive a unique personal code, which is used to link their identity to their roles across Companies House records. 

How to complete verification

There are two main routes:

• Directly via Companies House using GOV.UK One Login 
• Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), such as an accountant or solicitor 

You can find full guidance from the UK Government here:
Verify your identity for Companies House

How we can help

As an Authorised Corporate Service Provider, Sopher + Co can manage the entire process on your behalf.

Our service is designed to remove uncertainty and ensure everything is handled correctly, first time. We will guide you through the requirements, carry out the necessary checks, and liaise with Companies House where needed.

Our verification service includes:

• Document verification 
• Guidance throughout the process 
• Submission and registration with Companies House 
• Secure provision of your personal Verification ID 

We support a wide range of clients, including those with multiple appointments, overseas directors, more complex group structures and newly appointed officers or shareholders requiring fast-tracked verification.

Why act now?

Although there is a transition period, the practical impact is already being felt. 

Identity verification will become an important part of the filing process at Companies House. In due course, companies may not be able to complete certain filings unless all relevant individuals are verified, so leaving this until the last minute could create avoidable delays.

Beginning the process early can help to:

• Ensure everything is in place ahead of key filing dates 
• Avoid unnecessary delays or administrative issues 
• Allow time to resolve any queries, particularly for more complex structures or overseas individuals 
• Provide clarity and peace of mind as the new requirements are introduced 

Taking a proactive approach will help ensure ongoing compliance and keep your company’s filing obligations running smoothly.

How we can help

If you choose to complete the verification independently, please ensure you retain your personal Verification ID and share it with us for our records.

If you would like us to manage the process for you – or if you’re unsure how these changes apply to your business – please get in touch.

We’re here to make this straightforward, and to ensure you remain fully compliant as these new requirements take effect.