From 18 November 2025, the next stage of sweeping changes to Companies House will come into force under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA) 2023. The reforms are designed to strengthen the UK’s corporate register, tackle fraud, and increase transparency across businesses.

A key element of the new regime is mandatory identity verification (IDV). Company directors, persons of significant control (PSCs), members of limited liability partnerships (LLPs), and their equivalents will all be required to have their identity verified by Companies House. At the moment, directors, PSCs, LLP members and equivalents can voluntarily verify their identity. This however change from 18 November 2025 where ID Verification will become mandatory under the new system.

The new system will apply both to new and existing company officers:

  • New directors, PSCs LLP members and equivalents will need to provide a verified personal code when incorporating a company or LLP.
  • New directors, PSCs LLP members and equivalents must verify their identity by the date of their next annual confirmation statement.
  • Future appointees must complete verification before or shortly after appointment (14 days)

The ID Verification process can be completed in three ways: through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider, via the GOV.UK One Login app, or in person at a Post Office. Once verified, each individual will receive a personal code, which will serve as proof of compliance.

The Personal Code will need to be submitted at key points, such as with annual filings or through a new online portal for PSCs. For directors and equivalents, this code will need to be provided when filing the confirmation statement. For PSCs, it will need to be entered through a new portal due to be made live in November.

Strict deadlines apply. For example, PSCs who are not directors must supply their code within 14 days of the start of their birth month. Directors must provide theirs with the company’s confirmation statement, while newly appointed directors must submit it within 14 days of appointment.

The penalties for non-compliance are serious. Failing to verify, or appointing an unverified director, will become a criminal offence, and sanctions may include fines and potential consequences for a company’s ability to access insurance or financing.

Wilson Browne Solicitors, are already preparing to assist businesses through the transition, and their Corporate and Commercial team advises that early preparation will be essential to avoid penalties once the reforms take effect.

Businesses are urged to review their compliance procedures now, ensuring that all directors and PSCs are ready for the 18 November 2025 deadline.