The introduction of mandatory identity verification for all UK company directors marks a significant change to Companies House regulations. With the compliance deadline approaching, every existing director as well as anyone planning to become a director must complete identity verification to make sure their company remains fully compliant.
This verification process strengthens transparency, prevents fraudulent appointments, and protects the integrity of the UK business register. If every company is linked to real, verified individuals, creating a safer and more accountable business environment.
As an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), we support companies daily with formations, filings and regulatory compliance. We frequently receive questions from directors about what the new rules mean, how the process works, and the steps they need to take before the deadline. To simplify the process, we’ve compiled the 10 most frequently asked questions with clear guidance.
1. Who Needs to Verify Their Identity
Identity verification is mandatory for anyone involved in managing or filing documents for a UK company. This process maintains the integrity of the company register, prevents fraudulent activity, and links every company to verified individuals.
The main groups who must verify their identity include:
- Company Directors – All directors must complete identity verification before they can legally act in their role.
- People with Significant Control (PSCs) – Anyone who owns or controls a company, directly or indirectly, must verify their identity to confirm accountability and transparency.
- Company Secretaries and Authorised Filers – Individuals submitting filings on behalf of a company must be verified to ensure only authorised persons handle sensitive company matters.
- Newly Appointed Directors – Must verify their identity before their appointment is completed to avoid delays or invalid appointments.
- Individuals Filing Documents via an ACSP – Anyone using an Authorised Corporate Service Provider to file company documents is also required to complete identity verification as part of the process.
2. When Does Identity Verification Become Mandatory?
Identity verification becomes mandatory once the new Companies House rules take effect under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act.
- New directors must verify their identity before their appointment is completed.
- Existing directors must verify by the deadline set by Companies House to avoid penalties and restrictions on the company.
Companies House will issue official guidance, timelines, and deadlines, but businesses are encouraged to prepare now. As an ACSP, we monitor these updates and guide clients to ensure compliance.
3. How Long Does the Verification Process Take?
The identity verification process is designed to be quick, simple, and secure. In most cases, the verification can be completed in just a few minutes, as long as the correct documents are provided and the photos meet the required standards. For most directors, the expected timeframes are:
- Instant to a few minutes using online verification systems or ACSP digital platforms. However, ACSP may take up to 15 minutes to complete the process for one person.
- A few hours to 1 working day if additional checks are required.
- Longer in rare cases when documents are unclear, expired, or require manual review.
4. What Documents Are Needed for Identity Verification?
To complete identity verification, directors must provide documents that clearly confirm both who they are and where they live. Companies House requires government-issued identification, and in most cases, only one strong ID document is needed if it includes a photograph.
Primary ID (one of the following):
- Passport (UK or international)
- UK photocard driving licence
- National identity card (if applicable for your country of origin)
- Biometric residence permit or card (can be accepted up to 18 months after they have expired, as long as they meet the other identity‑check rules)
Documents must show:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Clear photograph
- Valid expiry date
Additional proof of address (if needed to cover the last 12 months):
- Utility bills (gas, electricity, water)
- Bank or credit card statements
- Council tax bills
- Mortgage statements
- Tenancy agreements
Documents should typically be issued within the last 3 months and show the current residential address. Online verification may also require a live selfie or short facial-recognition video to confirm identity.
Director Identity Verification Service
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Book an AppointmentWhatsApp Us5. Can an ACSP Verify My Company Director’s Identity?
Yes. An Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) is an officially approved company that can carry out identity checks for directors, People with Significant Control (PSCs), and anyone filing documents for a company. When you use an ACSP service, the person being verified receives a secure link to verify their face and documents. ACSPs follow strict security standards and compliance rules set by Companies House to ensure every verification is accurate and legally valid.
Benefits of ACSP verification:
- Faster verification
- Lower chance of rejection
- Full support at every step
- Convenience without handling Companies House processes yourself
- Secure and compliant with official standards
Who can use ACSP verification:
- Existing directors
- Newly appointed directors
- PSCs
- Company secretaries
- Anyone submitting filings for a company
6.What Is a Companies House Personal Code?
A Companies House Personal Code is a unique, secure code that every verified director, PSC, or authorised filer will receive once they have completed their identity verification. This code acts as your digital signature within the Companies House system and confirms that you are a verified individual allowed to act for a company. Think of it as your official identity key for interacting with Companies House.
What is the Personal Code used for?
- Confirming your identity when filing documents
- Approving company changes or updates
- Linking you to any company where you are a director or PSC
- Ensuring that only authorised individuals can act on behalf of a business
Without this code, you may not be able to submit filings or carry out certain actions once the new verification system becomes mandatory. You will receive your Personal Code after completing identity verification, either directly through Companies House or via an ACSP. Keep your Personal Code private and secure, like a password. It helps protect your company and ensures compliance with the new regulations.
7. What Happens If I Don’t Verify My Identity with Companies House?
Failing to verify your identity once the new Companies House requirements become mandatory can lead to serious consequences for both the individual director and the company. The purpose of identity verification is to strengthen transparency, reduce fraud, and ensure that every company is linked to genuine, accountable individuals. Because of this, non-compliance is treated seriously.
Consequences for Directors:
If a director does not complete identity verification by the deadline, they may face:
- Restrictions on their ability to act as a director
- Removal from the register, meaning their appointment may be considered invalid
- Financial penalties imposed under Companies House enforcement powers
- Possible prosecution in severe cases of continued non-compliance
Consequences for the Company
A company with unverified directors may experience:
- Delays or refusal of filings, including confirmation statements and updates
- Inability to appoint new directors until all verification requirements are met
- Compliance warnings and potential fines
- In extreme cases, Companies House may consider taking action against the company, including steps toward striking it off the register.
8. What Types of ID Are Accepted for Verification?
Companies House only accepts official IDs issued by the government to verify your identity. These ID documents must clearly show your personal details and have a clear photo of you. Usually, just one strong ID is enough to complete the verification. Commonly accepted IDs include a passport (from the UK or other countries), a UK photo driving licence, a national identity card from EU or similar countries, and biometric residence permits or cards.
9. When Is My Personal Deadline for Verification?
Your personal deadline for identity verification as a UK company director depends on whether you are an existing director or a newly appointed director. Companies House has set deadlines for all directors to complete verification promptly, helping maintain compliance and prevent fraud.
For Newly Appointed Directors
- Verification is required before the appointment can be officially registered with Companies House.
- If you do not verify your identity at the time of appointment, your directorship may not be legally recognised.
For Existing Directors
- Companies House has provided a specific window or deadline by which all current directors must complete verification.
- Missing this deadline can result in penalties, restrictions on your ability to act as a director, and potential consequences for the company itself.
Companies House will notify directors of the exact deadline via official communication. As an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), we monitor these deadlines closely and advise our clients individually, ensuring each director completes verification on time.
10. What Is the Difference Between GOV.UK One Login and ACSP Verification?
When it comes to verifying a UK company director’s identity, there are two main routes: using GOV.UK One Login or going through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP). Both are official methods, but they differ in process, support, and convenience.
GOV.UK One Login
- A secure digital identity verification method provided by the government.
- Directors complete identity verification themselves using the online platform.
- Requires scanning or photographing approved ID documents and submitting them online.
- Minimal support is available; users must navigate the process independently.
- Verification is recorded directly with Companies House.
ACSP Verification
- Conducted by an Authorised Corporate Service Provider, approved by Companies House.
- ACSPs guide directors through the process, ensuring documents meet all requirements.
- Offers pre-checks, advice, and support, reducing the risk of rejected submissions.
- Ideal for companies that want a smoother, faster process, especially when dealing with multiple directors or complex filings.
- Verification results are submitted to Companies House on behalf of the client, while maintaining full compliance with security and privacy standards.
Need Help with Company Director Identity Verification
Identity verification for UK company directors is now a crucial part of modernising and securing the Companies House register. All directors, PSCs, company secretaries, and authorized filers must verify their identity to meet the new rules and avoid penalties. As an ACSP we support you with all the required documents and every step of the process meets Companies House standards. Book a free consultation to get answers to your questions and plan your verification process efficiently.
