What is Companies House identity verification?

Identity verification is a new legal requirement under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. All company directors and PSCs must verify their identity to receive a Companies House personal code.

How much does identity verification cost?

Digital verification starts from £39, with video call verification available from £49. We also offer in-person verification from £59 and priority same-day service at £99.

How long does verification take?

Most digital verifications are completed within 24 hours. The actual identity check takes just 5-10 minutes.

What documents do I need?

For digital verification, you need a biometric passport or UK driving licence. For video call and in-person verification, a wider range of documents is accepted including national ID cards.

ACSP AP006589

Personal Code Guide

Your Personal Code is like a verified badge from Companies House. Here's everything you need to know.

The Short Version

A Personal Code is your unique identifier from Companies House. It proves you've verified your identity. You'll use it when filing documents like Confirmation Statements. Companies House hasn't set a fixed expiry — you use the same code each time, and one code covers all your roles. If re-verification is ever introduced, we'll let you know.

Unique to You

Linked to your verified identity

No Fixed Expiry

Use the same code each time

Works Everywhere

All companies, all roles

Choose a Topic

What is a Personal Code?

Understand what it is and why you need one

How to Get Your Code

Step-by-step guide to getting verified

How to Use Your Code

Where and when you'll need to enter it

Common Questions

What does a Personal Code look like?

It's a unique combination of letters and numbers, similar to a reference number. Companies House emails it directly to you after verification.

Do I need a different code for each company?

No! One Personal Code works for all your companies and all your roles (director, PSC, etc.).

Does my Personal Code expire?

No. Your code is permanent and doesn't need renewing.

What if I lose my Personal Code?

You can retrieve it from your Companies House account. If you have trouble, contact Companies House directly.

Can someone else use my Personal Code?

No – your code is linked to your verified identity. Someone else using it would be fraud.

Ready to Get Your Personal Code?

Verify your identity now — Companies House issues your code within days.

Get Verified - £39