How Does Companies House Identity Verification Work?

Understanding how Companies House identity verification works helps you prepare for the process and complete it efficiently. This guide explains the mechanics behind the verification, from initial checks to personal code issuance.

The legal basis

Companies House identity verification was introduced by the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA). The Act requires that individuals connected to UK companies prove they are who they say they are, improving the accuracy of the company register and making it harder to use companies for fraud. Read the full Companies House identity verification guidance.

Two verification routes

Companies House does not carry out identity checks itself. Instead, verification is handled through one of two approved routes:

• GOV.UK One Login - the direct, government-operated identity service. You verify yourself online using a UK passport or UK driving licence. It is free to use but limited to these two document types.
• Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs) - approved agents who perform identity checks under Companies House supervision. ACSPs accept a broader range of documents, support international applicants, and provide assisted verification.

What the identity check involves

Whichever route you take, the identity check follows a similar pattern:

1. Document submission - you provide a valid, current photo identity document. The document is checked for authenticity and for whether it matches the details you have given.
2. Data matching - your name, date of birth and other details are compared against the information held at Companies House and, where applicable, against external databases.
3. Liveness check - you take a real-time photo or video to confirm that you are the person on the identity document. This prevents impersonation.
4. Decision - your verification is either confirmed or referred for additional checks. Most straightforward verifications are completed quickly.

What happens after verification

Once your identity is verified, Companies House issues your 11-character personal code. The code belongs to you personally and does not expire. You must then provide it for each company role you hold - once per directorship, once per PSC position, and so on.

The code is provided through the Companies House online service, usually as part of a confirmation statement or through the dedicated code-linking service for PSCs.

How long does it take?

Through GOV.UK One Login, verification can be completed in a single session of around 10 minutes. Through an ACSP such as Companies House ID Verification, the application typically takes about 15 minutes, with verification usually confirmed within the same working day. Additional checks, where needed, may take longer.

What can go wrong?

The most common issues that delay or block verification are:

• Name mismatches - your ID name does not match the name on the Companies House register
• Expired documents - only current, valid documents are accepted
• Poor image quality - blurry or low-resolution document photos may be rejected
• Liveness check failure - poor lighting, glasses or camera issues can affect the check

Review the requirements page to prepare properly before starting.

Start the process

Companies House ID Verification walks you through the entire process for a fixed £19 per person. Start your verification or read how it works for the full step-by-step process.