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.

TL;DR

The process is the same whether you're a PSC, director, or both. Choose digital (fastest), video call, or in-person. Show your ID, we verify it, and you get a Personal Code from Companies House.

How to Verify as a PSC

Good News: Same Process for Everyone

Whether you're a PSC, a director, or both – the verification process is exactly the same. You only verify once, and your Personal Code covers all your roles across all companies.

The Process: 4 Simple Steps

Choose your verification method

Digital is fastest (5-10 mins). Video call or in-person if you need alternatives.

Provide your details

Name, date of birth, address – exactly as registered at Companies House.

Verify your identity

Scan your passport, take a selfie, or show ID on video call.

Receive your Personal Code

Companies House emails your unique code within a few days.

Choose Your Method

Digital Verification

£39

Verify from anywhere using your phone or computer

5-10 minutes1 document (biometric passport or UK driving licence)

Video Call

£49

Live video call with a verification specialist

15-20 minutes2 documents (1 photo ID + 1 proof of address)

If digital verification doesn't work for you

In-Person

£59

Meet us face-to-face in Manchester

30 minutes (appointment)2 documents (1 photo ID + 1 proof of address)

If you prefer meeting in person

Documents You'll Need

For Digital Verification

Just ONE of these:

Biometric passport (any country)
UK driving licence (photocard)

For Video / In-Person

TWO documents needed:

1 x Photo ID (passport, licence, etc.)
1 x Proof of address (utility bill, bank statement)

See full list of accepted documents

I'm Both a Director AND a PSC

No problem! This is very common, especially for small business owners.

What you need to know:

You only verify once
One Personal Code covers both roles
Same code works for all your companies
Pay once, verified forever

Common Questions

What if my name at Companies House is different from my ID?

Your details must match. If they don't (e.g., you've changed your name), you may need to update Companies House first, or use video call verification where we can handle minor discrepancies.

I live abroad. Can I still verify?

Yes! Digital and video call verification work from anywhere in the world. We accept passports from most countries.

How long until I get my Personal Code?

Most people receive their code from Companies House within a few days. We submit your verification the same day.

Don't Leave It Too Late

If you're a PSC but not a director, you must verify within the first 14 days of your birth month; if you're also a director, you verify by your next confirmation statement (and by 18 November 2026 at the latest). Continuing to act as an unverified PSC after your deadline is a criminal offence and can carry a financial penalty.

Ready to Get Started?

Choose your verification method and complete the process in minutes.

Start Verification - £39