Question 1

What is Companies House identity verification?

Accepted Answer

It is a legal requirement introduced under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA) for individuals connected to UK companies to prove their identity to Companies House. Once verified, each person receives an 11-character personal code that links them to their company roles.

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Question 2

Who needs to verify their identity with Companies House?

Accepted Answer

Company directors, persons with significant control (PSCs), members of LLPs, and individuals who file documents with Companies House on behalf of a company. Companies House estimates six to seven million people fall within this requirement.

Question 3

What is the deadline for Companies House identity verification?

Accepted Answer

Existing directors and PSCs must complete verification by November 2026. New directors appointed since 18 November 2025 must verify before their appointment can be registered. Acting as an unverified director after the deadline is a criminal offence.

Question 4

Can non-UK residents complete verification?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The process is designed for international applicants. You can complete every step remotely using identity documents issued in your own country - no UK visit or UK address is required.

Question 5

What documents are required?

Accepted Answer

Typically a current passport or national identity document, plus supporting information about your role and the companies you are connected to. Full details are on our Requirements page.

Question 6

What is a Companies House personal code?

Accepted Answer

An 11-character code issued to you as an individual once your identity is verified. You will need this code for your company's confirmation statement and to connect you to your directorships, PSC positions and filing rights.

Question 7

How is this different from GOV.UK One Login verification?

Accepted Answer

GOV.UK One Login is the direct, self-service route where you verify yourself with Companies House using a UK passport or driving licence. Our ACSP-approved service is an alternative that accepts a wider range of identity documents, supports overseas applicants, and provides guided assistance throughout the process.

Question 8

Is verification required for PSCs?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Persons with significant control fall within the verification regime and must verify their identity in the same way as directors. This includes anyone who owns more than 25% of a company's shares or voting rights.

Question 9

How long does the process take?

Accepted Answer

Most applicants complete their part of the process in a single session of around 15 minutes. Overall timing depends on document checks and your individual circumstances - we keep you informed at every stage.

Question 10

Can one personal code be used for multiple companies?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Your personal code belongs to you, not to a company. The same code connects you to every relevant role you hold across multiple companies.

Question 11

What happens if I do not verify by the deadline?

Accepted Answer

After November 2026, Companies House will add a public note to the register against anyone who has not verified. Unverified individuals will be unable to be appointed as a director, register a new company, or file documents. Continuing to act as a director without verification is a criminal offence under ECCTA.

Question 12

What does the £19 fee include?

Accepted Answer

The full guided process: role assessment, identity and document checks, international applicant support, and confirmation with personal-code guidance. There are no additional charges.

Question 13

Is my data handled securely?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Identity documents pass through an encrypted, access-controlled workflow and are retained only as long as necessary to complete your verification.

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