06 Aug 2025
Companies House is to roll out compulsory identity verification for company directors and people with significant control (PSCs) to help combat fraud and so-called phoenix companies.
From 18 November, new directors will need to verify their identity to incorporate a company or be appointed to an existing company. Existing directors will be required to confirm they have verified their identity when they file their next annual confirmation statement during a 12-month transition period.
Companies House said that the rollout of identity verification will 'boost business and support growth by giving more assurance about who is setting up, running and controlling companies in the UK'.
From 18 November, directors and PSCs will also be able to check the Companies House register to see identity verification due dates for all their roles.
Louise Smyth, CEO of Companies House, said: 'Identity verification will play a key role in improving the quality and reliability of our data and tackling misuse of the companies register.
'To support business and help people verify their identities, Companies House is contacting all companies with advice and guidance. This is part of a coordinated effort to help companies to comply.
'We encourage people to verify as early as possible.'
Further guidance can be found here.