The voluntary period for identity verification is open for business. More than 6 million individuals will need to comply in the 12 months after identity verification becomes a legal requirement later this year. This phased approach reduces the burden on companies
Today (8 April 2025) sees the launch of a new service that allows individuals to verify their identity directly with Companies House through GOV.UK One Login. People can also verify their identity through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).
The introduction of identity verification is one of the key changes to UK company law under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. This landmark legislation gave Companies House new and enhanced powers to help disrupt economic crime and support economic growth.
Identity verification will provide more assurance about who is setting up, running, owning and controlling companies in the UK. There will be the same level of assurance whether individuals are verifying their identity directly with Companies House or through an ACSP.
Companies House CEO Louise Smyth CBE said:
Minister for Employment Rights, Competition and Markets Justin Madders MP said:
AI and Digital Government Minister Feryal Clark MP said:
Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce said:
Thom Townsend, Executive Director, Open Ownership said:
Ben Cowdock, Senior Investigations Lead, Transparency International said:
Glenn Collins, Head of Technical and Strategic Engagement at the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) said:
Patrick Walsh, Chair of the Business Informational Providers Association (BIPA) said:
The Law Society of England and Wales Company Law Committee said: