From 18 November 2025, identity verification will become a legal requirement for all company directors and People with Significant Control (PSCs). This change forms part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 and will impact millions of individuals connected with UK companies.

If you are a company director or PSC, this new requirement applies to you. Understanding what’s involved and when you need to act is essential.

What’s changing?

From 18 November 2025:

• New directors will need to complete identity verification when incorporating a company or being appointed to an existing one.
• Existing directors will be asked to confirm their identity verification when filing their company’s next confirmation statement. This will take place within a 12-month transition period.
• Existing PSCs must also complete identity verification, with deadlines depending on their role and date of birth

Why is this happening?

The purpose of these changes is to make the companies register more transparent and trustworthy, and to help prevent fraud and economic crime. By introducing mandatory verification, it will be harder for individuals to hide behind false names or inaccurate company appointments.

What does it mean for your company?

For most people, this will be a one-off process. Companies House has confirmed that the process should be straightforward and quick.

Verification can be carried out using your GOV.UK One Login, or through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).

Once the rules are in place, it will be a criminal offence to act as a director without being verified.

When do you need to act?

If you are appointed as a new director or PSC from 18 November 2025, you must complete verification within 14 days of being registered.

If you are an existing PSC, your deadline will depend on your circumstances:

• If you are also a director, you must confirm that your identity has been verified within 14 days of the company’s confirmation statement date.
• If you are not a director, you must verify within 14 days from the first day of your birth month in 2026 (as recorded on the Companies House register).

Companies House will contact companies by email with guidance and instructions. From 18 November 2025, you will also be able to log in to Companies House to check your identity verification deadlines for all roles you hold.

Need support?

If you have questions or need help with the new requirements, please get in touch. Our team will be happy to guide you or your company through the process.

If you’re a Wilson Partners client, we have set up a service to assist you with your ID verification. Please contact your Client Manager for more information.