New Identity Verification Rules for Company Directors from November 2025

How well do you really know the people behind a company?

From November 2025, that question will be answered with greater clarity as the registration and verification of company directors undergoes significant change. The UK Government has confirmed new rules designed to increase transparency, reduce fraud and strengthen public confidence in corporate governance. For directors, shareholders and business owners, these changes will affect how companies are run and the responsibilities placed on those in charge. Understanding the requirements now will save time later, reduce the risk of non-compliance and ensure your company continues to operate smoothly once the new rules take effect.

What will change for directors/PSCs in 2025?

From Tuesday 18 November 2025, legal requirements for directors and people with significant control (PSCs) of companies to verify their identities will begin.

From 18 November 2025:

• new directors will need to have their identity verified before they can incorporate a company or be appointed to an existing company
• existing directors will need to have verified their identity by the time (or at the same time as) they file their next annual confirmation statement (i.e. there’ll be a 12-month transition period)
• existing PSCs who are also directors of the same company will need to have their identity verified within 14 days of the relevant company’s next confirmation statement date
• existing PSCs who are not also directors of the same company will need to have their identity verified within the first 14 days of their birth month

How do directors/PSCs verify their identity?

You can verify your identity through the GOV.UK One Login, or alternatively through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).  GOV.UK One Login is free to use and available immediately online. Its verification process should be quick.

Once you’ve successfully verified your identity you’ll receive a personal code from Companies House. From 18 November 2025, you’ll need to provide this code along with a verification statement for each company role you hold. As such, in most cases, you’ll only need to verify your identity once.

What happens if I don’t verify my identity?

Once these duties are in force, it’ll then be an offence to act as a director without having been verified. However, noting how new the system is and how significant the change is, Companies House will be proportionate in enforcing it and will place more emphasis on supporting and guiding companies through the change.

What should I do to prepare?

To be ready well in advance of 18 November 2025, we would recommend the following practical steps:

1. Review existing records

For existing directors and PSCs, check Companies House filings for accuracy. Outdated addresses, name discrepancies or missing details should be corrected now.

2. Prepare for verification

Ensure all directors have valid identification ready for the new process. Consider which service provider you may use if not verifying directly with Companies House’s GOV.UK One Login.

3. Update internal systems

Company secretaries and administrators should adjust their onboarding processes for new directors to include the forthcoming requirements.

4. Communicate with directors

Not all directors may be aware of these changes. Briefings or training sessions can avoid confusion later.

Legal support

The introduction of identity verification and enhanced information requirements for directors may seem like additional red tape, but it also provides clarity and security for the corporate community.

Directors and companies who start preparing now will be best placed to manage the transition smoothly. For guidance on how these changes affect your business, mlplaw’s Corporate team can advise on the steps to take and ensure you are compliant well before the November deadline.