New Companies House ID Verification Rules: What UK Directors Need to Know
As part of major reforms to tackle economic crime and increase corporate transparency, Companies House is introducing new mandatory identity verification checks for company directors and key individuals. These changes form a core part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, and will fundamentally change how UK companies are managed and validated.
Here’s what business owners, directors, and PSCs need to know — and how to prepare.
Who Will Need to Complete Identity Verification?
Once the new rules go live, Companies House will require identity checks from:
All existing and newly appointed directors
People with Significant Control (PSCs)
Anyone who files information with Companies House on behalf of a company
These checks are designed to ensure that company records are accurate, reliable, and linked to genuine individuals.
How Will the ID Verification Process Work?
To verify their identity, individuals will need to provide photographic or biometric evidence that matches an official document, such as a passport or driving licence.
The verification can be completed in one of two ways:
1. Directly with Companies House
A digital service will allow individuals to upload their information securely.
2. Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)
This includes regulated professionals such as accountants or company formation agents who are approved to carry out checks on your behalf.
Further technical details are expected shortly, but the system is being designed to be straightforward and secure.
When Will the New Requirements Begin?
The government has not yet confirmed an exact implementation date, but the new identity verification framework is expected to be introduced during 2025, followed by a transition period for existing companies.
In the meantime, now is the ideal opportunity to:
Ensure your company’s statutory records are up to date
Review director and PSC information
Check that Companies House filings are accurate
Being proactive will make compliance far easier when the rules take effect.
Why Are These Changes Being Introduced?
The reforms support a wider effort to improve the integrity of the UK corporate landscape. Alongside mandatory ID checks, the Act introduces:
Enhanced data sharing between Companies House and law enforcement
Greater protection for personal information
Stronger tools to prevent fraud and misuse of UK companies
Together, these updates aim to make doing business in the UK safer, more transparent, and more trusted by clients, investors, and regulators.
What Directors Should Be Doing Now
Identity verification is more than an administrative requirement — it’s part of demonstrating that your business is run responsibly and compliantly.
Taking steps now will help your company prepare:
Review your company’s registered details
Identify who will need to complete verification
Familiarise yourself with the new rules
Put internal processes in place ahead of the rollout
If you’re unsure how these changes affect your business, professional guidance can help you prepare with confidence.
Need Support Preparing for the New Rules?
At Alera Accounting & Advisory, we help directors and business owners stay compliant and ahead of regulatory changes. If you’d like tailored guidance on the new Companies House verification requirements — or support with company administration — our team is here to help.
Get in touch to discuss how these reforms impact your business.