Companies House Identity Verification Process

The Companies House identity verification process plays a critical role in ensuring transparency and accountability within the UK business landscape. This mandatory step helps verify the identity of individuals taking up company roles, such as company directors, members of limited liability partnerships, or individuals filing documents on behalf of a company. By requiring identity checks using accepted identity documents like a biometric passport, Companies House works with Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSP) to strengthen the integrity of the register and combat economic crime. From submitting documents to using GOV.UK verification services, understanding these requirements is crucial for seamless operation under the new rules.

Understanding Companies House Identity Verification

The identity verification process is a key requirement for individuals involved in the management or operation of UK companies. This process ensures that individuals, such as company directors, members of limited liability partnerships (LLPs), or those filing documents on behalf of a company, are verified before being added to the Companies House register.

It aims to uphold corporate transparency and prevent economic crime by requiring specific identity documents including a biometric passport, photocard driving licence, or UK biometric residence permit. Other requirements, such as proof of address or a national insurance number, may also be necessary.

Compliance is mandatory for all new appointments, including members of LLPs, ensuring that only verified individuals can assume significant control within a company. This strengthens the integrity of the register and protects the UK business landscape from fraudulent activity.

Who Needs to Complete ID Verification?

Identity verification is required for a range of individuals and roles within UK companies. This includes existing company directors, new directors, general partners, and corporate members. Members of LLPs and sole traders must also complete this process to ensure they meet the legal requirements under UK company law.

In addition, anyone filing documents on behalf of a company, such as a company secretary or an authorised agent, must undergo verification. For those requiring assistance with the process, an Authorised Corporate Service Provider can help navigate the verification requirements and ensure compliance.

This ensures that all individuals contributing to the public register are appropriately identified, reducing the risk of fraudulent activity or economic crime within UK businesses.

How to Complete Companies House ID Verification

Accepted Identity Documents

To complete the identity verification process, individuals must provide specific ID documents that meet the requirements set by Companies House:

• Biometric passport
• UK photocard driving licence
• UK biometric residence permit (BRP) or biometric residence card (BRC)
• UK frontier worker permit
• Proof of address and national insurance number (where applicable)

Verification Steps

Direct via GOV.UK One Login

One of the most common methods is using the GOV.UK portal with a smartphone to perform biometric ID checks. This involves scanning identity documents, such as a biometric passport, and capturing a real-time image (liveness check) of the individual for comparison.

Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)

Alternatively, individuals may choose direct verification via an Authorised Corporate Service Provider. ACSPs use in-person verification or IDVT (Identity Document Validation Technology) to verify identity. In both cases, individuals will need to provide personal information and answer security questions to confirm their identity.

This ACSP option is particularly helpful for overseas directors and non-UK residents, as GOV.UK may not work for all international users. ACSPs can provide managed evidence verification when technical platforms have limitations.

New Rules and Compliance Under UK Company Law

What Changes Are Introduced by ECCTA?

The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA) introduces new rules aimed at enhancing corporate governance and reducing economic crime. Following the 18 November 2025 rollout, mandatory identity verification checks apply to all individuals taking up company roles during the transition period. This ensures that new directors, members of LLPs, and those with significant control are verified under the new Companies House regulations.

The act strengthens the integrity of the public register by requiring accurate and verified personal information. Legal entities, such as limited partnerships and limited companies, are now subject to stricter compliance requirements to maintain their standing within the register and promote transparency across the UK business landscape.

What Are the Consequences of Non-Compliance?

Failure to complete identity verification checks can lead to significant consequences. Individuals or companies that do not comply with the new rules may face financial penalties or restrictions on their ability to operate. Non-compliance could result in blocked filings, limitations on submitting documents, or restrictions on exercising voting rights within a company.

In severe cases, failing to adhere to the Companies House ID verification requirements may constitute a criminal offence, leading to legal action against individuals or entities. Ensuring compliance protects both the company and its stakeholders from potential risks.

Why Identity Verification Matters for UK Businesses

Identity verification is essential for maintaining transparency and accountability in the UK business environment. By verifying the identity of individuals involved in company roles, Companies House can prevent economic crime and protect the integrity of PSC (Persons with Significant Control) data. This process ensures that only legitimate individuals can assume responsibilities within a company, reducing the risk of fraud.

Compliance with the new Companies House requirements also benefits businesses by streamlining their operations and building trust with stakeholders. Companies House authorised agents can assist businesses in navigating the process, ensuring they meet the necessary standards and remain compliant with UK company law.

Next Steps

1. Gather your required ID documents, such as a biometric passport or UK photocard driving licence, along with proof of address. Ensure all information is accurate and up-to-date to avoid delays or rejections.
2. Choose your verification route: use the GOV.UK One Login service for smartphone-based verification, or work with an Authorised Corporate Service Provider for managed assistance.
3. Complete the verification process and retain your personal verification code for future Companies House filings and appointments.

Helpful Links

• Companies House Verification Service
• Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSP)
• E-Apostille Services
• Anti-Money Laundering Compliance