SmartSearch urges early action as Companies House sets identity verification start date

Companies House has confirmed that mandatory identity verification for directors and people with significant control (PSCs) will begin on 18th November 2025, prompting calls for firms to act now to meet their obligations.

Phil Cotter, CEO of SmartSearch, said: “The confirmation that mandatory identity verification will begin on 18 November 2025 sets a clear timeline for one of the most significant reforms introduced by the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA).

“From that date, all new directors must verify their identity before incorporation or appointment, and existing directors and people with significant control (PSCs) must do the same within 12 months, or risk enforcement action — including fines and potential criminal penalties.”

Verification can be carried out via GOV.UK One Login or through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP). Once completed, individuals will be issued with a unique Companies House code, which must be used for every directorship or PSC role they hold.

Cotter warned that the scale of the challenge should not be underestimated, particularly for ACSPs, who now face a range of new compliance responsibilities.

“Individuals can complete verification directly via GOV.UK One Login, or through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider, or ACSP. Once verified, they will receive a personal code from Companies House, which must be provided for every directorship or PSC role they hold.

“While the process typically only needs to be completed once, it forms part of a broader effort to enhance corporate transparency and combat economic crime.”

He continued: “The financial services sector in particular stands to be significantly affected; 38% of financial services firms rank crime among their top three business challenges, a further 29% report a skills shortage, and 38% cite red tape as a major concern, all of which suggest that meeting these new obligations won’t be easy without the right support.”