An important change is coming for business owners in the UK.
They and other directors that own or work for a UK registered company will be required to complete an identification check using Companies House Identity Verification (IDV) service.
Companies House’ voluntary window to validate your identity is coming to end with checks officially becoming mandatory from 18 November 2025.
The changes apply to you as a business owner and potentially other important people within your business so it’s essential you check and ensure you know who must complete an identity check.
Completing your check as early as possible ensures you have less to be concerned about and the voluntary window in place gives you the chance to complete the check and help others should they need to use it.
The new laws will apply to business owners, directors and any people with significant control (PSCs) of a UK registered company.
From the 18 November 2025, the law becomes a mandatory requirement and will apply to any new directors and PSCs appointed after that date.
Limited liability partnership (LLP) will also need to complete an ID check for Companies House.
However, existing business owners and directors have a 12-month window to complete their check. You would need to complete your check by the 18 November 2026.
If you fail or refuse to complete an ID check, you will face the consequences which may include significant fines and the potential of not being allowed to register new businesses.
The current plans solely focus on directors and PSCs but there are further plans to introduce measures for other individuals including for people who file at Companies House, limited partnerships, corporate directors of companies and members of LLPs and any officers of corporate PSCs.
Companies House are keen to improve transparency as well as accuracy of the information available and the introduction of digital identity checks reflects this.
It’s a proactive approach and aligns with the Government’s Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 which is in place to combat financial crime and illicit activity.
The identity checks will provide Companies House with valuable and reliable information that they can use to protect businesses and tackle financial crime such as fraud and money laundering.
With the Government keen on combating financial crime, this initiative ensures Companies House can update the companies register and spot any concerns surrounding owners and directors and take the necessary steps to report those.
Completing the check is simple but you may want to seek help or advice if you haven’t completed a check like this before.
You have two options open to you either directly through Companies House or through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).
ACSPs are individuals or companies you must follow anti-money laundering (AML) regulations such as accountants, solicitors as well as chartered secretaries and government professionals.
ACSPs can notify Companies House that you have completed a digital ID verification check and verify this with Companies House who will confirm they have received your information.
Completing your check through Companies House is simple. You will need to use your Gov.UK one login and complete the steps from there.
The check through Companies House requires an in-date passport to verify your identity digitally and biometrically. Your passport contains a biometric chip which can be scanned digitally to confirm your identity.
In addition to this, you will need your driving or provisional licence, current address information and confirm how long you have lived at the property.
You can official documents such as HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) letters and bank statements as these will clarify that you live where you say you do.
You should complete your check as soon as possible and the voluntary window provides that opportunity but will be closing very soon.
If you have not completed a digital ID check before or want to understand the reason behind the changes, speak with legal and finance experts who can advise and guide you.
They can advise you on what you need to do, why the service is in place and ensure you meet the requirements set out by Companies House.
More information on digital ID checks, contact our team
