Companies House identity verification is now a legal requirement for UK company directors and people with significant control (PSCs). The requirement started on 18 November 2025 and marked the beginning of a 12-month transition period, giving companies time to make sure the right people are verified by their due dates. For London businesses, the rules are the Company House ID verification London.
This change matters because Companies House is tightening identity checks to improve trust in the company register and help reduce misuse. If you run a business in London, or you are forming a new company there, identity verification is now part of the normal compliance process for directors and PSCs.
There are several ways to verify your identity. The GOV.UK One Login route offers three methods: using the app, answering security questions online, or going to a Post Office. The method depends on the device you use, whether you have photo ID, and the type of photo ID you hold. Companies House also allows verification through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), such as an accountant, solicitor, or company formation agent.
Once your identity is verified, you receive a Companies House personal code. This code links your verified identity to the roles you hold on the register. If you are already a director, you usually need to provide the code in your next confirmation statement. If you become a director, you must provide it as part of your appointment filing or when incorporating a company. PSCs must also provide their personal code, and they have a 14-day period to do so, with the exact dates depending on their situation.
For London companies, the practical message is simple: do not leave verification until the last minute. Check who in your business is a director or PSC, make sure they have completed identity verification, and keep personal codes secure. If an accountant or agent files on your behalf, the code can be shared for that purpose, but it should still be protected carefully.
A good compliance routine is to verify early, store the personal code safely, and align the process with your next Companies House filing. That is especially useful for busy London businesses, where company changes, appointments, and confirmation statements can come up quickly.
Conclusion
Companies House ID verification is now a core part of running a UK company. For London businesses, the main task is to identify every director and PSC, complete verification through GOV.UK One Login or an ACSP, and use the personal code correctly when filing. Handling it early helps avoid delays and keeps your company records in order.