Supporting Clients Through Upcoming Companies house Compliance Changes
At Bright Brown, we want to ensure our clients are fully informed and well-prepared for the upcoming legislative changes being introduced by Companies House. One significant update is the introduction of mandatory identity verification for directors and persons of significant control (PSCs). This is set to come into force from Autumn 2025.
While Companies House has yet to confirm the precise date that the new rules will apply. Early guidance suggests that from Autumn 2025, Identity verification will be required:
● When a company files its confirmation statement
● When a company appoints a new director
● When adding a person of significant control (PSC)
This change forms part of a broader government effort to enhance corporate transparency and tackle economic crime by ensuring that individuals on the register are who they say they are.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you are a company director or a PSC, you will need to obtain a Companies House Personal Code. This code will be tied to your verified identity and will be required for submitting certain filings.
If Bright Brown normally files confirmation statements or director appointments on your behalf, rest assured — we will continue to do so. However, from Autumn onwards, we will also need your Personal Code added to your records to proceed with the filings.
We strongly recommend taking action ahead of time to register for this code. Doing so ensures:
● You are ready when the rules take effect
● Any technical issues during registration can be resolved early
● Your business remains compliant without disruption
How to Verify Your Identity
You can begin the verification process by visiting the official guidance page: Verify your identity for Companies House
To register, you will need:
● One form of approved photo identification, such as:
○ A biometric passport from any country
○ A UK photo driving licence (full or provisional)
○ A UK biometric residence permit (BRP)
○ A UK biometric residence card (BRC)
○ A UK Frontier Worker permit (FWP)
● Your current home address and the year you moved in
● A personal email address unique to you
The most straightforward way to complete the process is via a smartphone, using the GOV.UK ID Check app. Other methods are available, including:
● Registration via desktop or laptop
● In-person verification at select Post Office branches
Once Verified
Once you have completed verification, you will receive your Companies House Personal Code. Please forward this securely to the Bright Brown team so that we can store it and use it when filing documents on your behalf.
We’re Here to Help
As this is a new requirement, Companies House is still updating its guidance. If you encounter any difficulties or require support with the verification process, please do not hesitate to contact our team. We’re more than happy to assist you.
At Bright Brown, we are committed to helping our clients stay compliant and informed. We’ll continue to monitor the situation and provide further updates as more details become available.
