How to Verify Your Identity for a UK Company and Get a Personal Code for Free
Major changes in UK company compliance! Learn how to complete your personal identity verification for free and obtain your Personal Code to ensure your company remains compliant.
UK Compliance Update: Starting in 2025, the UK Companies House is implementing major policy changes. It is now mandatory for every company director and Person with Significant Control (PSC) to verify their identity.
The UK company management system has undergone a significant overhaul this year:
- New GOV.UK One Account: A unified identity verification system has been introduced alongside the existing Webfiling and Gateway systems.
- Mandatory Identity Verification: All directors and PSCs must now undergo personal identity verification.
- Fee Increases: Starting next year, the overall costs for UK company registration and maintenance are set to rise.
This guide will walk you through how to complete this verification process yourself, completely free of charge.
Do I Need to Verify My Identity?
Yes. If you have registered a UK company—whether through an agency, a DIY process, or any other channel—you must complete this step.
When Do I Need to Do It?
Don't be misled by "fear of missing out" (FOMO) marketing.
- Official Implementation Date: November 16, 2025.
- Deadline Advice: You don't necessarily need to finish it by November 16. You only need to ensure it's done before your next Confirmation Statement (annual filing) deadline.
Example: If your company's next filing deadline is April 14, 2026, you just need to obtain your Personal Code and enter it during the filing process before that date.
Step-by-Step Identity Verification
1. Preparation
Before you begin, ensure you have:
- A valid passport (preferably with an NFC chip).
- A smartphone (for installing the app and face verification).
2. Start Verification
Visit the official Identity guidance page and click Verify: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/verify-your-identity-for-companies-house
3. Register a GOV.UK One Account
Follow the prompts to create an account. The process is very smooth. If you have trouble receiving SMS codes on a non-UK number, try using an international number or choosing an alternative 2FA method like an Authenticator App.
4. Download the GOV.UK ID Check App
Once registered, the system will prompt you to download the GOV.UK ID Check app. It is available in most app stores globally.
5. Complete Verification in the App
Log in with your newly created account and follow the instructions:
- Take a photo of your passport.
- Scan the passport chip (hold your phone close to the passport to read the NFC data).
- Face verification (follow the on-screen instructions to scan your face).
6. Obtain Your Personal Code
- Obtain Your Personal Code. After successful verification, you will be issued a Personal Code. Make sure to save this code securely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
If your filing deadline is not yet due, there's no rush to link the code. Simply keep your Personal Code safe until your next annual return.
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