From 18 November 2025, Companies House will require all company directors in the United Kingdom to complete identity verification, marking a significant shift in how corporate information is submitted and approved. The change is part of a wider government initiative to tackle economic crime, close loopholes in company formation, and ensure greater accuracy across the UK’s business register.
The new requirement applies to:
- Individuals being newly appointed as directors
- Existing directors already on the register
- Persons of Significant Control (PSCs)
- Filing agents acting on behalf of companies
Verification will be mandatory before any appointment can be registered or changes submitted. Those who fail to comply will risk having their filings rejected or their director status invalidated. In cases of persistent non-compliance, Companies House may issue financial penalties or pursue criminal proceedings.
Businesses will be able to complete verification directly through Companies House or via an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) — such as an accountant or company formation agent — that meets the new due diligence and system requirements.
This reform is expected to place new pressure on internal governance processes, especially for organisations managing multiple entities, international directors, or frequent board changes. For firms that rely on routine filings — including changes to directorships, company structures, or shareholder information — the additional verification step could create delays if not planned for in advance.
The legislation is part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, designed to clean up the UK company register and improve trust in business by ensuring that only verified individuals are listed as company officers. It reflects a growing international trend toward stronger corporate accountability and digital identity controls.
Companies House is expected to publish further guidance in September 2025, including procedures for verifying overseas directors, timelines for existing directors to comply, and technical specifications for agents offering verification services.
Read more about the UK Government announcement here.
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