From 18 November 2025, identity verification became a mandatory requirement for Directors and Persons with Significant Control (PSCs).
These changes were introduced under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA) 2023, which is part of the UK Government’s wider strategy to combat economic crime and improve corporate accountability.
What’s changed?
Identity verification is now required for:
- All new incorporations.
- Appointments of new directors.
- Any changes to PSCs.
Directors cannot act in their role until verified, and companies cannot file their annual confirmation statement until all Directors have completed verification.
Key deadlines
For Directors
- New incorporations (from 18 November 2025): Each proposed Director must verify their identity before incorporation.
- New appointments (for existing companies): Verification must occur before the appointment is filed and before acting as a director.
- Existing Directors: Must verify their identity by the company’s next confirmation statement date.
- This falls within a 12-month transitional period depending on when your CS01 is due.
For PSCs
- Already registered on 18 November 2025: Must provide their personal code within 14 days of their birth month.
- Becoming a PSC after 18 November 2025: Must provide their personal code within 14 days of registration at Companies House.
- Directors who are also PSCs: Must provide their personal code within 14 days of the company’s confirmation statement.
How to verify your identity
The simplest way to verify is via Companies House using GOV.UK One Login and photo ID (passport or driving license).
For step-by-step guidance, visit https://www.gov.uk
Once verified, you’ll receive a personal code. Keep this secure – it’s required for filing documents at Companies House, and anyone filing on your behalf will also need it.
Changes to company registers
From 18 November 2025, companies are no longer required to maintain internal registers for:
- Directors
- Directors’ residential addresses
- Secretaries
- PSCs
However, you must still maintain a register of members, but the option to keep this on the central register at Companies House will be removed.
Despite the removal of certain registers, companies face enhanced reporting obligations. All information must be accurate and consistent with Companies House records. Failure to comply could result in unlimited fines.
Need Support?
Our Company Secretarial Service team can help you navigate these changes and ensure compliance. Please contact Sinead McLeod on sinead.mcleod@swinburnemaddison.co.uk or call us on 0191 384 2441 for more information.
