ECCTA Update: Timing for new identity verification regime confirmed

Following on from our updates earlier in the year on the upcoming changes to be introduced as part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA), Companies House has now confirmed the new identity verification (IDV) requirements for:

directors
people with significant control (PSCs)

will be compulsory from 18 November 2025.

These new requirements will significantly change the information required and processes involved in incorporating and operating a company in the UK.

Up until 18 November 2025, individuals can continue to voluntarily verify their identities ahead of the compulsory deadline.

Who needs to do this, and how to do this, is summarised in our article on what you need to know about it here: ECCTA Update: What do I need to know about the new identity verification regime?

After 18 November 2025, Companies House will start a compulsory IDV check for all new incorporations and new individual appointments, with a transition phase of 12 months for all existing directors and PSCs to verify their identity when a company’s annual confirmation statement is filed.

By spring 2026, it is anticipated that IDV for individuals who file documents at Companies House on behalf of UK companies will also be compulsory.

What should I do now?

Ahead of 18 November 2025, it would be advisable to work out which individuals in your organisation need to be verified, for each of them to set up their GOV.UK One Login and make sure that the identity documents are easily available (for example, if a passport renewal is due, consider getting the IDV done before the renewal process).

As IDV can be carried out now, Companies House is encouraging those who need their identity to be verified, to do so now in the voluntary period and beat the potential rush when the IDV requirements become compulsory.

If the IDV is not done during the voluntary period, we would suggest that you are aware of the annual submission date of your organisation’s confirmation statement so IDV can be completed ahead of the relevant filing date.

The above is intended to give a brief summary on upcoming ECCTA changes. If you would like further guidance or advice, please contact Sarah Merriott, Imogen Kelland or your usual Wallace contact.