New Mandatory Companies House ID Rules

From 8 April 2025, a voluntary identity verification service was launched by Companies House as part of a strategy to reduce potential fraud. Directors, PSCs (Persons with Significant Control), and others were given the option to verify early.

From Autumn 2025, this will become mandatory.

Who does this affect?

• All company directors
• PSCs with over 25% control

How to submit ID

Option 1:

Identity documents can be uploaded and verified by visiting https://www.gov.uk/guidance/verify-your-identity-for-companies-house

Option 2:

ID can also be submitted  and verified in person at a Post Office that offers ‘in-branch verification’; however, you are still required to start the process online https://www.gov.uk/using-your-gov-uk-one-login/proving-your-identity

Both options above require you to have a GOV.UK One login

Option 3:

Our Company Secretarial team can submit this on your behalf as a Companies House authorised agent. To do so, please email cosec@pierce.co.uk

Suitable Documentation

• passport from any country (biometric for option 1)
• UK photo driving licence (full or provisional)
• UK biometric residence permit (BRP)
• UK biometric residence card (BRC)
• UK Frontier Worker permit (FWP)

Successful verification is confirmed when you receive a unique identifier known as a Companies House Personal Code. This code is only applicable to you and not your company.

If we are providing the service to you, the code will still be sent directly to individuals.

Repercussions if you fail to provide documentation

• Filings of director appointments, incorporations and confirmation statements will be rejected
• You could face fines, with the expectation that there will be a stronger enforcement of these, be removed as a director, or have your company struck off

Our advice is to verify early to avoid any of the consequences of non-compliance.

Contact us for more information or to start the process by emailing cosec@pierce.co.uk