New rules requiring directors and people with significant control to verify their identity have come into force, marking a major shift in how UK companies are monitored and regulated.
From 18 November 2025, identity verification becomes compulsory for anyone newly appointed as a director or registered as a PSC. Companies House is introducing the system over a 12-month transition period to tighten the accuracy of the UK companies register and strengthen efforts to combat economic crime. Existing directors must complete the process when they file their next confirmation statement, while PSCs have specific 14-day windows based on their status and date of birth as recorded on the register. New PSCs registered after 18 November 2025 will receive notification of their individual deadline shortly after being added to the register.
The verification process can be completed online through GOV.UK One Login or via an authorised corporate service provider. The service is free when done directly through GOV.UK, and most checks can be completed using standard identification documents. Individuals only need to verify once and will receive a personal code for future filings. More than 1.5 million people have already verified their identity through the voluntary system introduced earlier in the year.
Companies House has outlined a compliance approach supported by a new enforcement framework. Failing to verify on time is an offence and may lead to financial penalties, referral to the Insolvency Service, or prosecution. Serious breaches involving fraudulent or criminal behaviour may trigger the organisation’s most extensive enforcement powers, working alongside law-enforcement partners.
The changes stem from the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, which introduced extensive measures designed to improve the reliability of company information and prevent misuse of the corporate register.
Further verification requirements for limited partnerships, corporate directors, corporate LLP members, and officers of corporate PSCs will be introduced later. Since March 2024, all companies have also been required to maintain a registered email address for official communication, which Companies House is now using to inform businesses of their verification obligations.
