From Tuesday 18 November 2025, directors and people with significant control (PSCs) of UK companies will be legally required to verify their identities, Companies House has confirmed.
The move marks the next phase of reforms under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, designed to crack down on fraud, improve trust in the register and give businesses greater confidence about who is running UK companies.
What changes on 18 November
- new directors will need to verify their identity to incorporate a company or be appointed to an existing company
- existing directors will need to confirm they have verified their identity at the same time as they file their next annual confirmation statement, during a 12-month transition period
- existing PSCs will need to verify their identity in line with an appointed day within 12 months of the commencement of mandatory identity verification on 18 November
In total, Companies House estimates that 6-7 million individuals will need to complete the process by November 2026.
From the rollout date, directors and PSCs will also be able to check due dates for verification across all their company roles directly via the Companies House register.
How to verify
Individuals can complete verification free of charge through GOV.UK One Login, or via an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).
Once verified, a personal code will be issued that must be provided alongside a verification statement for each company role held.
Enforcement and support
It will be an offence to act as a director without being verified once the rules take effect. However, Companies House said it will provide support and adopt a proportionate approach to enforcement. Companies are being contacted directly with guidance, and customer service channels are in place for those less confident online.
Why it matters
Companies House CEO Louise Smyth CBE said: “Identity verification will play a key role in improving the quality and reliability of our data and tackling misuse of the companies register. We encourage people to verify as early as possible.”
Government ministers added that the change will strengthen transparency, boost investor confidence and support growth by making company information more reliable.
Next steps for retailers
For retailers operating incorporated businesses, it is essential to:
- Check when confirmation statements are due.
- Ensure directors and PSCs begin verification promptly.
- Communicate requirements to all relevant parties to avoid delays or offences.
Companies House has already seen over 300,000 individuals voluntarily verify since April 2025, ahead of the November deadline.
For further information please see the government guidance.