Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 – Companies House Update

New identity verification requirements to start on 18 November 2025

Companies house has announced that the new identity verification (“IDV”) requirements for directors and PSCs (persons of significant control) will take effect on 18 November 2025. Estimates show that this will affect 6-7 million individuals.

From 18 November 2025 the following applies:

• New directors will need to verify their identity before being appointed, both to an existing company or on incorporation of a new company
• Existing directors will need to confirm they have verified their identity when the next annual confirmation statement for the company is filed (over a 12-month transitional period)
• New PSCs will need to verify their identity within a specified timeframe
• Existing PSCs will need to verify their identity in line with an appointed day within 12 months of the start of mandatory identity verification.

Companies House will be contacting companies to tell them what their directors and PSCs need to do to meet the verification requirements. As of the 18 November, directors and PSCs will also be able to check the register at Companies House to see their individual due dates for verification.

The need for Identity verification arises from the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 which aims to reform company law in an attempt to prevent organised criminals, fraudsters, and terrorists from abusing the UK's open economy. The UK government anticipates that it will help to deter people intending to use companies for illegal purposes and improve transparency, trust and accuracy of information on the Companies House register.

How can an IDV be completed? 

• Direct via Companies House - use the Gov.uk One Login service, or 
• Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), like Suntera Services UK, to reduce the compliance burden and streamline the process for your organisation.
  
  

Why  these reforms matter and here support adds value

These reforms represent a fundamental shift in corporate responsibility. Failure to comply with new requirements, such as identity verification or statutory filing deadlines, can lead to administrative disruption, financial penalties , strike off action and reputational damage.

For many businesses, keeping on top of these obligations can be both time-consuming and risky, which is why working with a partner like Suntera Services UK can help you:

• Ensure identity verification is completed correctly and on time.
• Manage deadlines and reduce risk of late filings.
• Access registered office, nominee, or director services where needed.
• Maintain full compliance with Companies House and HMRC.
• Navigate complex areas like PSC rules, AML obligations and governance best practice.
• Free up internal teams to focus on strategy.