Companies House Identity Verification: Key Deadlines Are Approaching

The Companies House identity verification regime introduced under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act is now well underway, and many directors and business owners remain unaware of the upcoming deadlines.

📅 Key Dates

• 18 March 2025 – Applications opened for businesses to register as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).

• 8 April 2025 – ACSPs became able to verify identities on behalf of clients, and voluntary identity verification commenced.

• 18 November 2025 – Identity verification became a legal requirement for company directors and Persons with Significant Control (PSCs), commencing a 12-month transition period for existing officeholders.

• 18 November 2026 – End of the transition period. Existing directors and PSCs who have not verified their identity may face penalties, filing restrictions, and other enforcement consequences.

Companies House has made it clear that individuals who fail to comply may be unable to make filings, appoint directors, incorporate companies, or carry out certain corporate activities.

At Staple Inn Notaries and International Lawyers, we assist UK and international clients with:

✔ ACSP identity verification

✔ Companies House compliance

✔ Director and PSC verification

✔ Corporate governance matters

✔ Cross-border corporate structures

If you are a company director, PSC, shareholder, entrepreneur, family office, or professional adviser, now is the time to ensure your arrangements are compliant.

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