This autumn sees important changes to Companies House identity verification requirements. If you’re a company director, PSC, or member of a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP), these changes will affect you, so it’s worth understanding what’s coming and how to prepare.
Companies House is implementing these new requirements as part of the government’s broader push to tackle economic crime and enhance transparency. From 18 November 2025, the changes will represent a fundamental shift from the current system, where there’s limited visibility into who’s submitting information, to one with full accountability and mandatory verification for all key corporate roles.
Who needs to complete companies house ID verification?
The mandatory verification requirements will apply to several key roles, and if you hold any of these positions, you’ll need to go through the process:
- Company Directors – This includes all directors of UK companies, whether you’re already in post or being newly appointed.
- People with Significant Control (PSCs) – If you own more than 25% of shares or voting rights, or exercise significant influence over the company, this applies to you.
- LLP Members – Anyone who’s a member of a Limited Liability Partnership.
- New Appointees – Anyone being appointed to any of the above roles after the requirements come into force
Are you an existing director or PSC?
If you’re already a director or PSC, you’ll have some breathing room. There’s a 12-month transition period from autumn to complete your verification, linked to when your company’s confirmation statement is due for filing.
For example, if your company’s confirmation statement is due on 31 March 2026, all directors must be verified by that date.
How to verify your identity with Companies House
The good news is that Companies House has made the verification process quite flexible.
You can verify your identity online using a mobile phone app or web browser, or face-to-face at a designated post office.
The documentation you’ll need depends on which verification route you choose, though having a current UK or overseas biometric passport will generally make the process smoother.
If you’re doing it online, you can visit the gov.uk website to start your verification here – Verify your identity for Companies House
Consequences of Non-Compliance
The penalties for failing to meet these requirements are quite serious and wide-ranging:
Criminal consequences
If directors and PSCs fail to verify their identity within the required timeframe, they’ll commit a criminal offence. What’s more, the company itself will also be liable for criminal prosecution if its officers fail to comply.
Practical restrictions
Beyond the criminal aspects, there are practical implications too. Individuals whose identity hasn’t been verified won’t be able to accept appointment as directors, and non-compliant officers may be flagged on the public register. There’s also potential for individuals to be barred from acting in their roles.
Corporate impact
Companies may face difficulties with routine filings and transactions, plus there’s the reputational damage that comes with having non-compliant officers flagged publicly. This could lead to complications with banking, insurance, and other business relationships.
How to get prepared for Companies House ID verification
Even though it might seem a way off, we’d recommend starting your preparation now. Here’s what we suggest getting started:
Start by identifying all directors and PSCs in your organisation who will need to verify their identity. Then, familiarise yourself with the verification process and what documentation you’ll need. It’s also worth planning the timing of your verification and if you’re considering any appointments or corporate restructuring, factor in these new requirements.
Once you’ve completed the verification process, you’ll receive a verification code. Existing DJH clients can send this code directly to their usual point of contact at our firm for our records.
These changes represent the most significant reform to Companies House procedures that we’ve seen in recent years. While there’s still time to prepare, getting ahead of the curve will help ensure smooth compliance and help you avoid the serious consequences of non-compliance.
