As previously reported, major changes are being implemented by Companies House under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA) around identity verification.

This is the biggest shake-up of Company Law since 2016 and important changes are coming in Spring 2025 through until Autumn 2026 requiring all directors (or equivalent) and PSCs to verify their identity with Companies House.

While details are still emerging, we understand that:

• Verification will be via online portals using facial recognition technology, with an in-person alternative via the Post Office.
• Once an individual’s identity is verified, a code (personal to that individual, similar to an NI number) will be issued to the individual’s email only.
• This code will need to be shared with us and anyone else who files statutory documents on the individual’s behalf.

Companies House have now issued the following preliminary timetable:

Spring 2025

• The portals will open and individuals will have the option to voluntarily verify their identity.

Autumn 2025

• Identity verification will be compulsory for incorporations, new director appointments and new PSC registrations – and we will need the personal codes of all concerned in order to assist.
• A 12-month transitionary period will begin whereby personal codes (for all directors and PSCs including representatives of corporate directors or PSCs) will need to be included in CS01 confirmation statement filings as they fall due.

By the end of 2026

• All individuals will need to have completed identity verification and action will be taken in respect of any non-compliance.

We will continue to provide updates on this important change and the actions clients will need to take to verify their identities.

We strongly encourage all individuals, especially those using our Company Secretarial services, to begin the verification process early, obtain their personal codes, and provide them to us. This will help ensure the timely filing of statutory documents throughout 2025 and into 2026.