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.

What is a PSC (Person with Significant Control)?

A Person with Significant Control (PSC) is someone who has significant influence or control over a company. This typically includes anyone who holds more than 25% of shares, holds more than 25% of voting rights, has the right to appoint or remove the majority of directors, or otherwise exercises significant influence or control.

Do all PSCs need to verify their identity?

Yes, all Persons with Significant Control must have verified identity before the company can file its Confirmation Statement. This is a legal requirement under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act.

I'm both a director and a PSC. Do I need to verify twice?

No, one verification covers both roles. Your Personal Code works for all your directorships and PSC positions across all companies. You only need to verify your identity once.

What if my PSC is a company, not a person?

Corporate PSCs (Relevant Legal Entities or RLEs) have different requirements. The individuals who control that entity may need to verify their identity. Contact us for specific guidance on your situation.

How do I know if I'm a PSC?

You are likely a PSC if you: own more than 25% of shares, control more than 25% of voting rights, can appoint or remove most directors, or have significant influence over the company. Check your company's PSC register on Companies House.

What documents do I need to verify as a PSC?

For digital verification: a valid passport, UK/EU driving licence, or BRP. For video call and in-person verification: one photo ID plus one supporting document (like a utility bill or bank statement dated within 3 months).

ACSP Authorised Agent: AP006589

PSC Identity Verification

Persons with Significant Control need verified ID for Companies House. We make it quick and easy from just £39.

Get Verified Now Already verified? File your VS01

Got your Companies House Personal Code already? File your PSC verification statement (VS01) now.

5-10 minutes

Same-day results

From £39

What is a Person with Significant Control?

A Person with Significant Control (PSC) is an individual who has significant influence or control over a company. Most private companies have at least one PSC.

PSCs are often the same people as directors, but not always. You could be a PSC without being a director if you meet any of the criteria below.

You're a PSC if you:

Own >25% shares

Hold more than 25% of the company's shares

Control >25% votes

Control more than 25% of voting rights

Appoint directors

Can appoint or remove the majority of directors

Significant influence

Otherwise exercise significant control over the company

Not sure if you're a PSC?

Check your company's PSC register on Companies House, or contact us for guidance.

Why PSCs Must Verify Their Identity

Legal Requirement

The Economic Crime Act requires all PSCs to have verified identities. Non-compliance affects your company.

Filing Deadline

Your company cannot file its Confirmation Statement until all PSCs are verified. Don't delay.

One Code, All Roles

Verify once and use your Personal Code for all your PSC and director positions across all companies.

How PSC Verification Works

The same simple process as director verification

Choose Your Method

Select digital (£39), video call (£49), or in-person (£59) verification.

Verify Your Identity

Complete verification using your passport, driving licence, or other accepted documents.

Receive Your Code

Companies House emails your Personal Code directly to you within a few days.

Your document must be in date. Expired passports, driving licences or ID cards are automatically rejected and your verification will fail — please check the expiry date before you start or pay.