Companies House Identity Verification Service - What UK Directors Need to Know

Companies House identity verification is now a legal requirement for people who set up, run, own or control UK companies. The service is designed to confirm that directors, people with significant control and other relevant individuals are genuine and to improve the accuracy of the Companies House register.

What is the Companies House identity verification service?

The Companies House identity verification service allows an individual to prove their identity directly through GOV.UK One Login or through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider - ACSP.

The requirement became law on 18 November 2025, with a phased 12-month transition period. The exact date by which an individual must complete verification depends on their circumstances and Companies House filing requirements.

For UK company directors, PSCs and other relevant individuals, completing verification is an important part of maintaining company compliance.

How does Companies House identity verification work?

Individuals can verify directly through the official Companies House process or use an ACSP such as an eligible accountant, solicitor or company formation professional.

When using an ACSP, the provider carries out the required identity checks and reports the verification to Companies House. The individual then receives a personal code by email which is used to connect their verified identity with Companies House records.

Identity checks can involve personal information and approved identity documents. ACSPs must meet the Companies House identity verification standard and retain appropriate records of their checks.

Using an ACSP for identity verification

An Authorised Corporate Service Provider can be particularly useful for overseas directors, company owners and businesses that prefer professional assistance with their Companies House compliance.

ACSPs must be registered with Companies House and be supervised under UK anti-money laundering requirements. Companies House maintains a public list of registered ACSPs, although it advises users to research an agent's reputation, experience, services and fees before engaging them.

Fraser Bond can assist businesses and international clients with UK company compliance requirements, including coordinating appropriate professional support for Companies House identity verification.

Who needs Companies House identity verification?

The requirement applies to relevant people connected with UK companies, including:

• Company directors

• People with significant control - PSCs

• Equivalent company officers

• Certain individuals who file information with Companies House

The verification process is intended to strengthen transparency and make it harder for companies to be used for fraudulent or unlawful purposes.

Companies House compliance for overseas directors

UK companies can have directors who live outside the UK, making professional assistance useful for international founders establishing or managing a British company.

An overseas director can complete identity verification through an appropriate ACSP, provided the required identity evidence and checks meet Companies House requirements. The official verification service can also be accessed from outside the UK.

Fraser Bond can help international entrepreneurs understand the practical requirements involved in UK company formation, director compliance and ongoing corporate administration.

Professional help with UK company compliance

Companies House identity verification is only one part of maintaining a compliant UK company. Businesses may also need support with company formation, director requirements, PSC information, registered office arrangements, filing obligations and wider corporate administration.

Fraser Bond provides practical UK business and property consultancy support for clients who need assistance navigating UK requirements.

Speak to Fraser Bond

If you need help understanding Companies House identity verification, director compliance or UK company setup, Fraser Bond can help you identify the appropriate requirements and professional support for your circumstances.