- Product Explore >
- Pricing
-
Insights
Insights
Explore >
Up to top (this text gets replaced by JS) Up a level (this text gets replaced by JS)
- Discover
- Press Centre
- Articles
- Research and Guides
- Events
- FAQs
- A strategic guide for navigating legal entity compliance in 2025 and beyond
- Remain Legally Compliant in 2025
- Industry Focus Explore >
- Contact Us
What is changing and who it affects
Starting 18 November 2025, Companies House will require identity verification for all Company Directors, People with Significant Control (PSCs), and members of limited liability partnerships (LLP partners).
New appointees must complete verification immediately upon appointment, while existing directors and PSCs must verify their identity according to their company’s confirmation statement timetable. Therefore, many will face staggered deadlines extending into 2026.
Since filings depend on verified roles, Companies House will reject Confirmation Statements or director appointments if individuals fail to provide their personal Companies House verification code.
How people can verify
There are two main verification routes available.
1. Online self-verification – Individuals can verify their identity through GOV.UK One Login, a free government service. Most users will need a biometric passport, UK photocard driving licence, or biometric residence permit. They must also confirm their current address and the year they moved in. After verification, Companies House emails a personal code, which individuals should share with their company or filing agent.
2. Alternative verification routes – Those unable or unwilling to use the digital option can verify in person at the Post Office or through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP). The ACSP must be registered with Companies House and supervised for anti-money laundering (AML) compliance. In some cases, bank or building society details can serve as additional proof.
Key implications for companies and service providers
Companies must ensure that every required director or PSC provides a valid verification code before filing. Otherwise, the company will not be able to submit a Confirmation Statement.
When an individual holds multiple roles—for instance, both Director and PSC—they must complete separate verifications and use distinct codes for each role. Furthermore, Companies House will show verification deadlines on the public register, enabling organisations to track progress and avoid missing dates.
What ACSPs and firms like Klea should consider
Firms that assist clients must be registered as ACSPs and supervised for AML compliance. To verify on behalf of a director, an ACSP must collect a passport or driving licence, proof of address, and sometimes a photo or selfie. After performing AML checks, the ACSP can then obtain the verification code for that individual.
Therefore, any firm planning to offer this service should confirm that it already meets all registration and supervision obligations before helping clients.
Timing, enforcement, and risks
The mandatory start date is 18 November 2025, following a voluntary testing period earlier in the year. During the transition phase, deadlines will align with confirmation statements, creating a gradual rollout until mid-to-late 2026.
Failure to verify or share a valid code will block statutory filings and increase regulatory risk. Repeated non-compliance can lead to civil penalties, criminal prosecution, or director disqualification. Because Companies House intends to enforce these rules rigorously, early preparation is essential.
What to do now
Companies should start preparing immediately. Identify all directors, PSCs, and LLP partners who must verify, and map their names against upcoming confirmation statement dates. Encourage them to use the GOV.UK One Login since it remains the simplest and most cost-effective route.
If an individual cannot verify online, arrange support through an AML-supervised ACSP. In addition, incorporate a verification check into your internal workflows so that missing codes do not cause submission failures or delays.
Final practical note
Companies House provides detailed guidance explaining how verification codes function. Companies and service providers should review this material, communicate clear instructions to clients, and plan for early action. This approach will reduce filing delays and eliminate last-minute compliance risks when the new rules become fully mandatory.
What’s Next?
Managing director and PSC verification requires careful planning and ongoing monitoring. For more insights into compliance frameworks in other jurisdictions, explore our article on NACE Code Updates in Cyprus for 2025 Compliance.
Klea transforms entity management by offering centralised governance, automated compliance, and secure collaboration tools. For this reason, businesses seeking efficient, scalable solutions can take the following actions:
- Request a Demo – See Klea in action for your organisation.
- Start a Trial – Experience firsthand how automation reduces workload and improves efficiency.
- Talk to Our Experts – Get tailored recommendations based on your entity management needs.
Company secretarial software solutions are crucial for organisations aiming to maintain structured governance, consistent compliance, and accurate records. With Klea, companies can ensure that every director change is executed efficiently, transparently, and risk-free.
Legal Disclaimer
The information provided on Klea’s website is made available “as is” for informational purposes only. Klea does not provide legal, tax, or financial advice and is not responsible for any actions taken or not taken based on the content found on this website. In no event shall Klea be liable for any loss or damages arising from reliance on the information contained herein.
For specific legal or compliance support tailored to your business needs, please contact Klea directly. Our team provides personalised guidance and expert solutions. Any reliance on general content without direct consultation does not establish any legal responsibility or liability on Klea’s part.