From 18 November 2025, all company directors and people with significant control (PSCs) must legally verify their identity, as part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. This is a new step in reducing fraud and increasing transparency around UK companies -and it’s vital to stay ahead of it.
Here’s everything you need to know to stay compliant, avoid delays, and make the process as smooth as possible.
Step 1: Verify Your Identity with Companies House
You can verify your identity using the government’s secure online service:
Verify your identity for Companies House now
What you’ll need:
Before you begin, gather the following:
Identification:
- A biometric passport (UK or any country) – recommended, or
- A UK driving licence
Biometric passports have a small rectangular chip symbol on the cover and can be used at e-passport gates. All UK passports issued after 2006 are biometric.
Your current address
- Plus, the year you moved in
What to expect from the process?
The identity verification process takes less than 10 minutes and can be done on your laptop and phone.
The following steps assume you’re using a biometric passport and the GOV.UK app, which is the fastest and easiest route for most people.
Click the link: Verify your identity for Companies House now
- Set up or log into your GOV.UK One Login
- If you already have a Companies House account, you’ll be able to link it (just once).
- Begin verification
- You’ll be asked if your identity has been verified before. Select ‘No’ unless you’ve already completed this.
- Let Companies House guide you to the best route
You’ll see three options:
- Use the GOV.UK app (recommended)
- Verify online without the app
- Verify in person
Most people will use the GOV.UK app, which makes things much quicker.
Using the GOV.UK app with a passport:
- Download the app (if you haven’t already)
- Follow the on-screen instructions:
- Take a clear photo of your passport’s photo page
- Scan the chip by placing the top of your phone directly on the passport (tip: remove your phone case first and press your phone firmly onto the passport)
- Use your phone’s camera to scan your face for comparison
- Once complete, switch back to your laptop:
- Enter your address and the year you moved in
- You’ll receive your Companies House personal code – keep this safe!
Step 2: Send Us Your Companies House Personal Code
Once you’ve verified your identity, you’ll receive a unique Companies House personal code.
This code is personal to you – not your company and it allows us to link your verified identity to your role as a director or PSC.
Please send your code to us via email or add it directly to your client portal in the relevant box.
We’ll be able to complete this step after 18 November 2025, once Companies House enables role-linking.
Why you should act now
From 18 November 2025, Companies House will not accept confirmation statements for any company where all directors are not verified.
By acting early, you can:
- ✅ Avoid last-minute stress and processing delays
- ✅ Ensure your company stays fully compliant
- ✅ Give yourself time if you need help along the way
Need a hand?
We’re here to support you through the process. If you have any questions, tech troubles, or just want to double-check you’ve done it right, drop us a message. This is new territory for everyone (including us!) – but you’re not alone in navigating it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s a biometric passport?
A passport with an embedded chip, shown by a small rectangular symbol on the cover. All UK passports issued after 2006 are biometric.
Can I use a driving licence instead?
Yes, but we recommend using a biometric passport if possible — the process is usually quicker and more reliable.
How long does it take?
The whole process typically takes under 10 minutes, especially if you’re using the app and a biometric passport.
When does this apply?
The legal requirement starts from 18 November 2025 — but you can verify your identity now to get ahead.
Final Thoughts
This new identity verification step might feel like a bit of admin, but it’s ultimately a positive move to protect your business and reduce fraud in the UK.
As always, we’re here to help you cut through the red tape and keep things simple and clear.
Ready to verify?
Verify your identity with Companies House now
Disclaimer:
The information in this blog is for general guidance only and does not constitute accounting, tax, or business advice. Every business is unique, and we recommend seeking personalised advice before making any financial or strategic decisions. If you need tailored support, feel free to contact us at [email protected]