Companies House Identity Verification Launch: What UK Businesses Must Know Before November 2025

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The companies house identity verification launch is set to transform the way companies operate in the UK. For decades, individuals could form and manage companies with very little scrutiny, creating opportunities for fraudsters and anonymous controllers to hide behind false records. With this new system, directors and people with significant control will be required to prove their identities, strengthening trust and transparency.

This change is part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, a piece of legislation designed to clean up the UK’s corporate landscape. The launch is more than a minor administrative adjustment; it is a crucial safeguard that ensures the public register becomes more reliable. For businesses, understanding how the system works and preparing in advance will be essential to avoid disruption.

What is the Companies House Identity Verification Launch

The companies house identity verification launch is essentially a legal requirement for directors, company officers, and those with significant influence over businesses to prove their identity. Verification will involve providing official documents, such as a passport, and matching these with biometric technology to confirm an individual’s authenticity. This will prevent the use of fake names or stolen identities in the creation and operation of companies.

Voluntary verification began in April 2025, giving businesses an early opportunity to comply. However, from 18 November 2025, the process becomes mandatory. This marks a turning point for Companies House, which has traditionally operated as a registrar of information without directly verifying its accuracy. The new approach is designed to close loopholes and make the register more dependable.

Who Needs to Verify Their Identity

The companies house identity verification launch applies to several groups. New directors must verify their identity immediately upon incorporation or appointment to a company. This ensures that individuals entering the system are legitimate from the very beginning, removing opportunities for fraudulent registrations or hidden beneficial owners.

Existing directors must complete the process when they next file a confirmation statement with Companies House. People with significant control (PSCs) are also included, but they are given a 12-month grace period after the mandatory start date. This ensures everyone with true influence over a company is visible on the public record, improving accountability.

How to Verify Your Identity with Companies House

Verification under the companies house identity verification launch can be completed in several ways. The most convenient is online, using GOV.UK One Login and a smartphone. This allows individuals to scan their passport and biometric chip, with the system cross-checking details to confirm identity. It is a fast and secure way to meet the new requirements without paperwork.

Those unable to use online systems can verify their identity at designated Post Office branches. This option is vital for people without digital access or biometric passports. In addition, authorised corporate service providers (ACSPs) such as accountants or lawyers can carry out verification on behalf of clients, ensuring flexibility for different business needs.

Key Deadlines and Timeline for Identity Verification

The companies house identity verification launch is being rolled out in phases. Voluntary checks became available in April 2025, giving individuals and businesses a chance to familiarise themselves with the system. The mandatory requirement begins on 18 November 2025, and from this date, identity verification will be compulsory for new directors and new incorporations.

Existing directors and PSCs will be brought into the system gradually. Directors will need to complete verification when their confirmation statement is due, while PSCs will have up to 12 months to comply. This phased approach ensures businesses have time to adapt, but failing to prepare could still lead to costly penalties or operational delays.

What Happens If You Don’t Verify Your Identity

Failure to comply with the companies house identity verification launch carries serious consequences. Directors who do not verify their identity will be unable to perform their legal duties. This includes filing essential documents, such as the confirmation statement, which could ultimately prevent a company from meeting statutory obligations.

In more extreme cases, companies may face fines or be struck off the register entirely. The government has made clear that identity verification is not optional but a critical part of the Companies House company crackdown. Those who attempt to bypass the rules risk severe legal and financial repercussions.

How the Identity Verification Launch Impacts UK Businesses

The companies house identity verification launch has broad implications for the UK business community. On the surface, it introduces a new compliance requirement. Yet at a deeper level, it offers clear benefits. By ensuring that the register contains verified individuals, businesses can build trust with investors, banks, and customers who rely on accurate company data.

For small businesses, preparation is key. Early verification will prevent last-minute rushes and reduce the risk of filing delays. Larger organisations must also consider how the rules affect complex ownership structures. With service providers like accountants stepping in to support verification, businesses have multiple routes to stay compliant while maintaining focus on growth.

Using Companies House Tools During the Transition

Alongside the companies house identity verification launch, existing digital tools are being improved. Companies House Beta Search and Companies House Webcheck will soon provide more reliable data, since every director and PSC listed will have a verified identity. This is expected to improve due diligence for lenders, partners, and regulators.

Companies House Webfiling is also being updated to integrate with GOV.UK One Login, ensuring that only verified users can submit filings. Support is available through Companies House contact channels for those needing guidance. These improvements strengthen the overall system, making it harder for criminals to manipulate company records for unlawful purposes.

Conclusion

The companies house identity verification launch is more than a regulatory update—it is a transformation of the UK’s business environment. By requiring directors and PSCs to verify their identities, the government is taking a bold step toward reducing economic crime and restoring confidence in the corporate register.

Businesses that prepare early will avoid the stress of deadlines and position themselves as compliant, trustworthy organisations. As the 18 November 2025 deadline approaches, company directors, owners, and advisers must treat verification as a priority. Compliance is not just about avoiding penalties—it is about supporting a transparent and fair UK economy.