The Economic crime and corporate transparency (ECCT) Act introduced new requirements for identity verification. From 18 November 2025, identity verification became a legal requirement - anyone setting up, running, owning or controlling a company in the UK must verify their identity to prove they are who they claim to be.
In the future, those submitting information to Companies House (‘presenters’) will also be required to be identity verified or registered as an Authorised Corporate Services Provider (ACSP). This relates to the filing of any statutory document.
We can now confirm that the Spring 2026 due date for presenter measures has been postponed until no earlier than November 2026. This is to prioritise the completion of the identity verification transition period for directors and PSCs, and to give us more time to address stakeholder feedback.
We have updated the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act outline transition plan on GOV.UK and our Changes to UK company law website to reflect this.
As always, we’re keen to strike the right balance between enhancing the transparency and accuracy of the register and ensuring that any additional requirements do not place undue burdens on businesses.
We’ll continue to listen and work closely with customers and stakeholders to make sure this measure is implemented as smoothly as possible. As part of this, we’ll consider if any exemptions or amendments should be made to the legislation to address stakeholder feedback.
Further information will be provided in due course, but if you have any further questions then please do get in contact via xml@companieshouse.gov.uk
Kind regards,
KAJ