Director Identity Check UK - Companies House Verification Support

A director identity check in the UK is now an important part of company compliance. Companies House identity verification helps confirm that directors are genuine individuals and strengthens the accuracy and security of the UK company register.

Since 18 November 2025, identity verification has been a legal requirement for company directors and people with significant control, with a transition period determining when existing individuals must complete the process.

What Is a UK Director Identity Check?

A director identity check confirms the identity of an individual who is appointed or already registered as a company director.

The process is designed to reduce identity fraud, prevent misuse of companies and improve confidence in information held at Companies House.

Once verification is completed, the director receives a Companies House personal code. This code is used to connect the verified identity with the director's company roles.

Who Needs Director Identity Verification?

Identity verification can apply to:

• Directors of UK companies

• New company directors

• Existing company directors

• Directors of overseas companies registered in the UK

• Individuals who are also PSCs

• Equivalent company officers where the rules apply

A director with appointments in multiple companies may need to provide their personal code for each relevant company role.

How Does the Companies House Identity Check Work?

Directors can verify their identity directly through the Companies House verification service or use an Authorised Corporate Service Provider.

The direct verification process uses GOV.UK One Login and may involve a suitable photographic identity document and other personal information.

An ACSP, such as an appropriately authorised accountant, solicitor or company formation professional, can also carry out identity verification on behalf of a client.

What Is a Companies House Personal Code?

After successful identity verification, a director receives a personal code.

The code is important because it connects the individual's verified identity to their Companies House records. Directors should keep the code secure and only share it with trusted people who need it for legitimate company administration.

Director Identity Check for Overseas Directors

Non-UK residents who act as directors of UK companies can also be subject to Companies House identity verification requirements.

This makes professional support particularly useful for international entrepreneurs who operate UK companies from outside Britain.

Fraser Bond can assist overseas directors with practical UK corporate administration, including company compliance, registered office arrangements and Companies House-related support.

What Happens If a Director Does Not Verify?

Failure to complete mandatory identity verification within the applicable timeframe can result in compliance problems and potential penalties.

A company may also face restrictions when completing certain Companies House filings if its directors have not satisfied the applicable verification requirements.

Keeping director information and verification requirements up to date is therefore an important part of ongoing UK company administration.

Fraser Bond Director Identity Check UK Support

Fraser Bond provides practical corporate consultancy and company administration support for UK businesses, international entrepreneurs, property investors and overseas directors.

Our services can include director compliance support, Companies House administration, registered office services, company secretarial assistance and wider corporate compliance coordination.

Get Support With Your Director Identity Check

If you need assistance with UK director identity verification or wider Companies House compliance, Fraser Bond can help you understand the requirements and organise the appropriate corporate administration support.