Identity verification
Companies House will introduce a new identity verification process to help deter those wishing to use companies for illegal purposes.
Anyone setting up, running, owning or controlling a company in the UK will need to verify their identity to prove they are who they claim to be.
We’re introducing identity verification in a phased approach. Over the coming months, we’ll explain when each of the changes will come into effect and how the identity verification process will work. You do not need to do anything yet.
Who needs to verify their identity
From autumn 2025, all new directors and people with significant control (PSCs) will need to complete identity verification.
Identity verification will also apply to other registration types. For example, any members of a limited liability partnership (LLP) will also need to verify their identity.
For existing companies, all directors (or equivalent) and PSCs will have a 12-month transition period to verify their identity with Companies House. The transition period will start from autumn 2025.
From spring 2026, anyone acting on behalf of a company will also need to verify their identity before they can file information with us.
You can verify directly with Companies House, or through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).
Verifying your identity directly with Companies House
You’ll be able to use GOV.UK One Login to verify your identity using ID documents, such as a passport. There will be a range of support and services available to help you complete this process.
Verifying your identity through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider
Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs) are individuals or organisations that undertake anti-money laundering (AML) supervised activity, such as:
- company formation agents
- solicitors
- accountants
- chartered secretaries and governance professionals
From spring 2025, anti-money laundering supervised firms and sole traders will be able to apply to become ACSPs.
Identity verification checks by ACSPs must meet the same level of assurance as those who verify directly with Companies House.
We’ll publish detailed guidance for ACSPs on these identity verification requirements.