Summary of the Identity Verification Regime

The introduction of identity verification is one of the key changes to UK company law under the Economic Crime & Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA). Directors, people with significant control (PSCs) and those delivering documents to Companies House must be identity verified under the provisions of the ECCTA and there will be potential civil and criminal penalties for failure to do so.

The voluntary period for identity verification opened on 8th April 2025. Mandatory identity verification for directors and PSCs began on 18th November 2025.

What this ID verification overview is for

This template provides a brief overview of the identity verification regime and is designed to be attached to a letter sent to directors or PSCs explaining the requirements.

What this overview covers

• What identity verification is.
• Who needs to be identity verified.
• The identity verification timeline.
• The changes in force from 18th November 2025.
• The use of a unique identifier code.
• The routes to identity verification.
• The consequences of non-compliance.

Designed for a straightforward UK private company scenario

This overview is designed for a straightforward scenario of verifying a UK-based director or PSC in a private limited company. In that scenario, individuals should find it quick to use the Government’s free One Login Service to complete identity verification.

For companies with groups, overseas directors, or where a director or PSC has identity complexities, identity verification may be more complicated and may need to be routed through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).

Companies House guidance

Companies House guidance on the identity verification process is available here.

ECCTA 2023 context

The ECCTA gives Companies House new and enhanced powers to help disrupt economic crime and the identity verification regime is a key component of this.

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