Identity Verification for Company Directors and PSCs: What You Need to Do
The UK Government has introduced new measures under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act to increase corporate accountability and reduce economic crime.
As part of these changes, all company directors, People with Significant Control (“PSC”), and certain others will now be required to complete Identity Verification (“IDV”) – either directly with Companies House or via an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (“ACSP”). These include company formation agents, solicitors, accountants and chartered secretaries.
What This Means for You
To remain compliant with the new regulations, you must ensure:
- All directors (or equivalent) and PSC complete an IDV
- Non-compliance can lead to serious consequences, including:
- Criminal charges
- Financial penalties
- Inability to act as a director or register a new company
- Potential removal from the Companies House register
IDV will become a legal requirement from 18 November 2025. Companies House continues to raise awareness of IDV and your company may already have been contacted via your registered email address.
From 18 November 2025, IDV will be compulsory for newly appointed directors, PSCs and LLP members, including on the incorporation of a new entity.
From 18 November 2025, there will be a 12-month transition period for existing company officers and PSC to verify their identity. IDV for directors (including those who are also PSC) will form a compulsory part of the annual confirmation statement filing. For PSCs who are not also a director, an IDV will need to be recorded in the first 14 days of their birth month shown in the Companies House records.
How can we help?
Simmons Gainsford is registered as an ACSP, and we can support our clients with this new compliance requirement.
If you require guidance on your obligations under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, please contact your Relationship Partner.