ACSP Identity Verification - UK Companies House Requirements
ACSP identity verification allows an Authorised Corporate Service Provider to verify a person's identity on behalf of Companies House. It is an important option for UK company directors, people with significant control and other individuals who need to complete Companies House identity checks.
What is ACSP identity verification?
An Authorised Corporate Service Provider - ACSP - is a professional or business authorised by Companies House to carry out certain corporate services, including identity verification.
Examples can include accountants, solicitors and company formation agents. To become an ACSP, the provider must be registered with Companies House and supervised by a UK Anti-Money Laundering - AML - supervisory body.
The ACSP identity verification route can be useful for people who prefer professional assistance rather than completing the verification process directly with Companies House.
Who can use an ACSP for identity verification?
An ACSP can verify the identity of people who need to meet Companies House identity verification requirements, including:
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UK company directors
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People with significant control - PSCs
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Equivalent company officers
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Other individuals covered by the Companies House verification requirements
Identity verification became a legal requirement from 18 November 2025, with a phased transition period determining when different individuals must complete the process.
How does ACSP identity verification work?
The process normally involves selecting a registered ACSP and providing the required identity information and supporting documents.
The ACSP carries out identity checks to the Companies House verification standard. Once the verification has been successfully reported to Companies House, the individual receives an 11-character personal code by email. This code is then used to connect the verified identity to the person's Companies House records.
An ACSP may charge a fee for completing the service, so businesses should check the provider's services and pricing before proceeding.
ACSP verification for overseas directors
One advantage of using an ACSP is that identity verification can be completed from any country. This makes the service particularly relevant to overseas entrepreneurs and international directors involved with UK companies.
For international clients, professional assistance can make it easier to understand the documentation, verification requirements and wider UK company compliance obligations.
What records must an ACSP keep?
ACSPs have legal responsibilities when verifying identities. They must keep records of identity checks for seven years and provide information to Companies House if requested.
Companies House can also suspend or cease an ACSP's authorised status where the provider fails to meet its legal obligations.
This makes it important to use a genuine, properly registered ACSP rather than an unverified company offering informal identity checks.
Finding an ACSP for Companies House verification
Companies House maintains a public list of registered Authorised Corporate Service Providers. The list was most recently updated on 27 August 2026. Businesses should check that a provider is appropriately authorised and consider its experience, reputation and fees before using its services.
Fraser Bond can help UK and international clients understand Companies House requirements and coordinate appropriate professional support for company formation and corporate compliance.
UK company compliance support from Fraser Bond
ACSP identity verification is one part of wider UK company compliance. Directors and business owners may also need assistance with company formation, registered office requirements, PSC information, corporate administration and ongoing filing obligations.
Fraser Bond provides practical consultancy support for clients dealing with UK property, business and corporate requirements.
Speak to Fraser Bond
If you need ACSP identity verification, director verification or assistance understanding Companies House requirements, Fraser Bond can help you identify the appropriate compliance process and professional support.
