Individuals associated with a company, such as directors or those with significant control, can complete identity verification in three ways:

Directly through the GOV.UK One Login Service. To get a Companies House personal code, use the GOV.UK One Login service to verify your identity online or in person. The process will ask you simple questions and guide you to the best verification method, such as using an app, answering security questions, or using your photo ID at a Post Office. Once verified, you will receive a unique, 11-digit personal code.

1. Create a GOV.UK One Login:
   Please use the email address linked to your Companies House account.
2. Start the Service:
   Go to the "Verify Your Identity for Companies House" section on the GOV.UK website.
3. Follow the Steps:
   The service will ask you questions and guide you to the best method based on your device and the identity documents you provide.
4. Receive Your Code:
   After your verification is successfully completed, you will receive a personal code online.

Get a Companies House personal code In-person at a Post Office. To verify your identity for Companies House at a Post Office, you must first initiate the verification process online through the GOV.UK "One Login" website. During this step, you will need to provide personal information to create an account and request a verification letter. Once your application is processed, you will receive a verification letter by mail, which is essential for the next step.

After receiving your letter, gather your original photo identification, which can be a valid passport or a UK driving license. Ensure that the ID is not expired and clearly shows your photograph.

Next, visit a participating Post Office branch that offers identity verification services. It’s advisable to check in advance for the locations and their operating hours to avoid any inconvenience. At the Post Office, you will present your verification letter along with your photo ID. The staff will meticulously check your documents to confirm your identity, after which they will complete the verification process on your behalf. This procedure is crucial for establishing your identity with Companies House.

1. Step 1: Start the Process Online:
   To start the identity verification process for Companies House, visit the GOV.UK One Login website. Enter your details and choose the documents you will use for verification. After submitting your information, you will receive a verification letter and/or an email with the next steps.
2. Step 2: Visit a Participating Post Office:
   Please locate a Post Office that provides in-branch verification. Bring the verification letter along with the original documents you selected online, such as a UK passport, a non-UK passport, a UK or EU driving licence, or a UK biometric residence permit. Additionally, you must have a UK home address.
3. Step 3: Complete the Verification:
   The Post Office staff will verify your original documents and take your photo for the verification process. After confirming your identity, they will send a report to finalize the verification.

Obtaining personal code and ID verification through the Post Office for new company formation can be challenging and inconvenient due to various logistical and procedural issues

1. Limited Locations:
   Not every Post Office branch offers the in-branch ID verification service, which means that individuals may have to travel significant distances to find a location that participates in this service. This can create inconvenience, especially for those who may not have easy access to transportation or live in rural areas where the nearest participating branch is far away. It is advisable for individuals to check in advance which branches provide the service to avoid unnecessary travel.
2. Need for Appointment:
   Numerous branches providing this essential service now require pre-booked appointments. As we approach the looming verification deadline of November 2025, the demand for these appointments has surged, resulting in a scarcity that could cause significant delays. It’s advisable to secure your appointment as soon as possible to avoid the last-minute rush and ensure a smoother verification process.
3. Prior Online Steps Required:
   Before visiting a branch in person, it is essential to initiate the process online via the GOV.UK website. During this initial step, you will need to complete the required information and obtain a unique reference number, which will be necessary for your in-person visit. This online procedure ensures that your appointment runs smoothly and efficiently, streamlining your experience at the branch.
4. Strict Document Requirements:
   The name and address on your identification documents must match exactly with the information you provided online and the details held by Companies House. Any minor discrepancies, such as a misspelled name or an expired document, will lead to rejection.
5. Document Originals Only:
   Only original documents are accepted; photocopies or printouts are not permitted.
6. Potential for Human Error/Technical Glitches:
   Although the in-branch method offers a viable alternative when online technical issues arise, it still necessitates the scanning and digitizing of documents. This process, while generally effective, can occasionally introduce its own set of challenges, including technical glitches or human errors that may occur at the branch level. As a result, what is intended to be a straightforward solution can sometimes become complicated, highlighting the need for careful attention to detail throughout the workflow.
7. No Immediate Code:
   At the Post Office, the staff do not issue your personal code on the spot. Instead, they carefully scan your documents and capture a photo, which they then submit to Companies House for verification. You can expect to receive the outcome of your identity check, along with your personal code, through email. Please note that this process may take up to a day or even longer, so be sure to check your inbox regularly for updates.
8. Alternative Methods Often Faster:
   The GOV.UK One Login app method, if successful, is usually much quicker, often taking just a few minutes to a few hours, compared to the delays associated with booking and attending a Post Office appointment.

As a result of various challenges with alternative verification methods, a growing number of individuals are turning to the Post Office as their final option. This reliance has led to significant delays and a frustrating backlog, making the process increasingly inconvenient for everyone involved.

Important Information About Your Personal Code.

1. It’s Unique to You:
   You only need to complete the verification process once, and the code will be yours permanently.
2. Keep It Secure:
   This code is uniquely tied to you, not your company, making its protection crucial. It is imperative that you share it only with trusted individuals who file on your behalf. Safeguarding this information is essential for your security and ensures a smooth filing process.
3. Keep It Updated:
   If you are currently serving as a director or a Person of Significant Control (PSC), you have an important 12-month transition period to complete your identity verification. To ensure a smooth process for all future filings, including your confirmation statement, it’s essential that you provide your personal code. Take advantage of this opportunity to stay compliant and maintain your standing. Your proactive approach will demonstrate your commitment to transparency and governance.

A Companies House personal code is essential, as it acts as your unique identifier, verifying that you have successfully confirmed your identity with Companies House. This code is necessary for all subsequent interactions with the agency, including being appointed as a company director, filing confirmation statements, and submitting other important documents. By utilizing this personal code, you guarantee that your verified identity is consistently associated with your designated roles and responsibilities within the company. This not only facilitates compliance with legal obligations but also enhances the integrity of corporate governance.

Protecting this code is imperative, as it serves a vital function in your professional interactions with Companies House, ensuring that all engagements are conducted with the utmost professionalism and transparency. Safeguarding this code reflects your commitment to maintaining the highest ethical standards in your career.

1. It links your verified identity:
   This code serves as an essential personal identifier that securely connects your verified identity to all your roles—such as director or person with significant control (PSC)—across every UK company you are associated with. Embrace this opportunity to establish clear and trustworthy connections in the business landscape.
2. It’s required for future filings:
   It is essential to provide this code whenever you or an authorized agent, such as an accountant, files documents with Companies House on behalf of your company. Failing to do so could result in complications for your business, so ensure this vital information is always at hand for a seamless filing process.
3. New appointments:
   Starting in autumn 2025, it will be mandatory to provide the code when becoming a director or PSC.
4. It’s used for existing roles:
   All current directors and PSCs are required to securely link their verified identity to their company records using their unique code. This essential process will ensure compliance and enhance the integrity of company governance. Please note that the transition period will conclude in autumn 2026, making it imperative to take action soon. Don’t miss the opportunity to uphold the standards of your role.
5. It ensures security:
   The identity verification process, combined with a personal code, significantly strengthens security by making it much more challenging for criminals to impersonate individuals or establish fraudulent companies. This robust framework is essential in the fight against illegal activities such as fraud and money laundering, ensuring greater protection for everyone involved.

A personal code, notably the Companies House personal code in the United Kingdom, is a vital necessity for anyone looking to establish a new company. This unique code is among the essential legal requirements for identity verification, which was implemented under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act of 2023. The primary objective of this legislation is to effectively combat fraud, bolster transparency, and ensure that the individuals who govern and control UK companies are genuinely who they claim to be. This initiative marks a significant step towards creating a more secure and trustworthy business environment in the UK.

Every new company director and individual identified as having significant control (PSC) must submit their personal code during the registration process of the company. This unique code serves as an essential identifier, and without it, neither can you be legally appointed to a position within the company nor can you successfully create a new business entity. Therefore, ensuring that you have this code on hand is crucial for complying with legal requirements and facilitating the smooth establishment of your company.

The personal code is a distinctive 11-character identifier, carefully crafted and issued once an individual successfully verifies their identity with Companies House. This important code acts as official proof that the identity verification process has been thoroughly completed, thereby upholding the integrity of businesses and reinforcing the trustworthiness of public records. It plays a crucial role in fostering transparency and confidence within the business community.

Your personal code is a distinctive identifier that belongs solely to you as an individual, rather than being associated with any particular company. Once you verify your identity for the first time, you won’t need to go through that process again; you can use the same code for all your future roles and essential company filings, including confirmation statements. This efficient system not only enhances your experience but also significantly simplifies the process of maintaining ongoing compliance, making it easier for you to navigate your professional responsibilities.

Making Identity Verification Simple, Secure and Trusted. Identity verification can be completed directly via the GOV.UK One Login service or indirectly through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP). ACSPs are supervised bodies, such as business formation agents, accountants or solicitors, authorised by Companies House to perform this service for individuals.

An Authorised Company Service Provider (ACSP) acts as a trusted intermediary, similar to a business formation agency, solicitor, or accountant, who has received official authorization from Companies House to file essential documents on your behalf. This option is particularly advantageous if you wish to utilize an established professional relationship for your business needs.

The ACSP will expertly manage the entire verification process, ensuring that all necessary documentation is handled efficiently and accurately. This service is accessible from any country worldwide, as long as the agent you choose is officially registered with Companies House, allowing for a seamless experience regardless of your location.

Engaging an Authorized Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) can provide a more streamlined and dependable approach to identity verification compared to traditional methods like the Post Office. ACSPs bring a wealth of expertise, guiding clients through the intricate landscape of identity checks with ease and confidence.

Their services not only simplify the verification process but also enhance it by seamlessly integrating it with a range of other company formation services. This comprehensive support ensures that businesses can focus on their growth while leaving the complexities of compliance and verification in the hands of knowledgeable professionals. Convenience and Efficiency:

1. Integrated Services:
   ACSPs, such as accountants or company formation agents, can combine identity verification with the entire company formation and filing process, creating a seamless, one-stop-shop experience.
2. Remote/Digital Process:
   Many ACSPs utilize Identity Document Validation Technology (IDVT) or other electronic services to verify your identity remotely, often through a mobile app. This eliminates the need for in-person visits to a physical Post Office branch.
3. Expert Guidance:
   ACSPs offer professional support and guide you through the process, ensuring all documentation is accurate and complies with Companies House and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations. This minimizes the risk of errors or rejection.
4. Time-Saving:
   The process with an ACSP can often be completed within one business day, allowing you to concentrate on running your business.
5. Non-UK Residents:
   The ACSP route is particularly beneficial for non-UK residents or individuals without specific UK documents (such as a UK biometric passport). ACSPs are equipped to handle international IDs and can perform verification without requiring a GOV.UK One Login account or an in-person visit to the Post Office.
6. Multiple Roles:
   ACSPs can efficiently manage verification for individuals holding multiple roles (e.g., directors of several companies or Persons with Significant Control), linking all roles to your single personal code.
7. Troubleshooting:
   If issues arise, such as a discrepancy between your name at Companies House and your identification, an ACSP serves as a contact point to swiftly resolve these complications.

In conclusion, although the Post Office option is a viable choice, utilizing an ACSP significantly streamlines the entire formation and verification process. This approach not only enhances efficiency but also provides a level of flexibility that is especially beneficial for complicated cases or non-residents. Furthermore, an ACSP offers a professional guarantee of compliance, ensuring that all requirements are met with the highest standard of assurance.

Do ACSP and formation agent mean the same thing?
No, ACSP (Authorised Corporate Service Provider) and formation agent do not mean the exact same thing, but a company formation agent can be an ACSP. A company formation agent is a business that helps individuals set up (incorporate) new companies and may offer related services like filing documents or providing a registered office address.

An ACSP is a specific legal status introduced by the UK’s Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA) for any third-party agent (which includes company formation agents, but also accountants, solicitors, etc.) that wishes to file documents or verify client identities with Companies House on behalf of clients.

In short, company formation agent describes the type of service provided, while ACSP is a formal, regulated designation that allows these agents to perform specific, mandatory tasks (like identity verification and filing) under the new UK legal framework. To operate fully under the new rules, all formation agents that file on behalf of clients will need to be registered ACSPs and be supervised under UK anti-money laundering (AML) regulations.

Authorized Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs) were introduced by the ECCTA 2023 as a way for individuals to verify their identity for Companies House purposes, such as when setting up a company.

To be acknowledged as an Authorized Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), a firm—whether it be a reputable accounting firm, a distinguished solicitors’ practice, a reliable company formation agent, or a skilled governance professional—must successfully navigate the registration process to become an authorized agent. This essential registration empowers the firm to conduct thorough identity verification checks for their clients on behalf of Companies House, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

Additionally, it grants them the authority to submit important documents to Companies House on behalf of their clients, a process that has now become a mandatory requirement for business operations. This designation not only enhances the firm’s credibility but also facilitates seamless interactions with regulatory authorities, ultimately benefiting their clients’ ventures.

Is Coddan CPM registered as an ACSP? Yes, Coddan CPM is officially registered as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) by Companies House. Coddan is proudly recognized and approved by the UK government as a leading provider of identity verification services and a range of corporate solutions, adhering to the latest regulatory standards. Leveraging its prestigious Approved Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) status, Coddan expertly delivers comprehensive identity verification, efficient company formation, and a variety of essential corporate support services tailored for both UK citizens and international clients alike. From navigating complex regulations to offering personalized guidance, Coddan is committed to supporting individuals and businesses in achieving their corporate objectives seamlessly.

The cornerstone of effective identity verification and the seamless formation of a company lies in establishing a trustworthy digital or physical record that clearly links all relevant individuals to the business entity. Throughout the company formation process, it is crucial to meticulously provide the names and detailed information of the directors, as well as those with significant control, ensuring a transparent and comprehensive overview of the leadership and governance structure.

To conduct comprehensive and robust identity checks, it is vital to implement a powerful combination of advanced biometric verification techniques and a secure, interconnected online identity framework. Moreover, every company must establish and maintain an appropriate email address that facilitates seamless and efficient communication with pertinent governmental authorities, such as Companies House in the UK.

By adhering to these critical guidelines and requirements, businesses can significantly enhance their credibility while ensuring compliance with today’s increasingly complex regulatory landscape. This proactive approach not only fosters trust but also promotes a secure environment for all stakeholders involved.

Upon successfully confirming their identity, individuals are assigned a distinctive personal code or identifier that forges a direct connection between their verified identity and the official company records. This process transcends mere formality; it is a critical legal obligation. Formation agents and pivotal regulatory authorities, such as Companies House in the UK, are compelled to uphold rigorous Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations, which mandate the execution of these vital identity checks. This meticulos verification not only safeguards the integrity of financial systems but also fosters trust in business transactions.

Establishing this linked record is not merely a suggestion; it is an indispensable requirement that underpins trust and security in business transactions. National trust frameworks, such as the UK Digital Identity and Attributes Trust Framework, offer robust guidelines and establish the highest standards for secure and reliable identity verification. By embracing these protocols, organizations can cultivate a dependable and transparent operational environment that fosters confidence among customers and stakeholders alike.

Get your ID verified for Companies House with an approved ACSP—fast and fully compliant Identity Verification service with a service provider you can trust.

Learn about the essential identity checks for directors in the UK; industry comply with the Economic Crime Act and build a trustworthy business foundation.

In accordance with current legislation, it is absolutely imperative for all directors and individuals with Significant Control to undergo comprehensive identity verification checks during the company formation process. This critical step is not just a formality; it is essential for establishing trust and integrity in business practices. To fulfill this requirement, individuals must present a valid form of identification, such as a passport or photo driving license, which authenticates their identity. Furthermore, providing recent proof of address—like a utility bill or bank statement—is necessary to ensure that the information on record is both current and accurate. By adhering to these rigorous standards, we fortify the foundation of our business environment, fostering transparency and accountability that benefit everyone involved. Ensuring compliance not only meets legal obligations but also reinforces trust and integrity in your business practices.
A pivotal requirement for conducting thorough identity checks and successfully establishing a company in the UK is the verification of director identities, as mandated by the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. This essential procedure applies to both new and existing directors, who are obligated to confirm their identities with Companies House before embarking on the company registration process or submitting their annual confirmation statements.
Upon successful verification, each director receives a unique personal code, a vital element that must be intricately linked to their official role within the company. This structured approach not only bolsters corporate integrity but also cultivates a culture of accountability and transparency in the ever-evolving business landscape. Ensuring that this process is meticulously followed reinforces trust and reliability, positioning companies to thrive in a competitive market.

Your personal identity code is crucial for UK directors and PSCs; learn how to obtain and use it for confirmation statements to ensure regulatory compliance.

The personal identity code assigned to directors and individuals with significant control (PSCs) is an essential component of the UK identity verification process and the submission of confirmation statements. This vital code, which serves as a cornerstone for maintaining transparency and accountability in corporate governance, is generated following a thorough identity verification process.
Beginning on 18 November 2025, this code will act as your unique identifier, crucial for confirming your identity during the filing of confirmation statements. As such, securing this code is not merely a regulatory obligation; it is a fundamental step in ensuring compliance and upholding the integrity of your business operations. By safeguarding this code, you contribute to a culture of trust and transparency within your organization and the broader business community.

Learn why the unique personal code is crucial for UK company directors; safeguard your identity and ensure compliance in the company formation process.

The unique personal code, commonly referred to as the Unique Identifier Code, is an essential requirement for establishing a company in the UK and successfully completing identity checks. This code is generated only after an individual verifies their identity with Companies House, and it plays a vital role for all company directors and individuals with significant control. It strongly connects their verified identity to their specific roles within the company, reinforcing both accountability and transparency.
Compliance with this requirement is not merely advisable—it is mandatory for maintaining the integrity of all filings, including the confirmation statement. Therefore, securing this unique code should be your top priority, as it is instrumental in navigating the company formation process with confidence and efficiency. Ensure you don’t overlook this crucial step on your path to successful company establishment.
Protecting your personal code is paramount, and it deserves the same level of security as your most sensitive information. Share your code only with trusted individuals who have a valid reason to file on your behalf. By ensuring the confidentiality of your code, you significantly enhance your protection against unauthorized access and safeguard your valuable information. Take this crucial step to secure your privacy and peace of mind.

Learn about the UK’s PSC register, a vital element for company setup that mandates transparency by documenting significant owners and controllers of your business.

The single most important extra element for a company setup in Scotland, compared to many other jurisdictions, is the requirement to identify and register Persons of Significant Control (PSC) with Companies House. While core requirements like choosing a business structure, name, and registered address are common internationally, the Scotland’s PSC Register is a specific, publicly accessible mandate aimed at transparency, requiring companies to detail anyone who owns or controls more than 25% of the shares or voting rights, or otherwise exercises significant influence.
Companies must not only register this information at incorporation but also keep the register updated and file a confirmation statement annually, ensuring the information remains current. For international entrepreneurs, this requirement ensures that the ultimate beneficial owners are clearly documented and publicly visible, a process that can be more stringent or less public in other countries.

Simplifying Identity Verification in Edinburgh: The Role of Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs).

Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs) offer a simpler online route for identity verification in Edinburgh, especially for those who cannot complete the process directly with Companies House. ACSPs act as agents to verify your identity for you, which can be helpful if you are overseas or lack the necessary documents or a GOV.UK One Login account. You choose an authorised agent, such as an accountant or solicitor, who is registered with Companies House and a UK Anti-Money Laundering (AML) supervisory body.
For those living outside the UK, using an ACSP is a more practical solution compared to the standard online or face-to-face methods, which can be more difficult to access. ACSPs can handle identity verification for individuals who lack the necessary documents for the standard digital process or who have more complex identity verification scenarios. While ACSPs can complete the verification online, they also have the option to perform in-person checks, providing a more flexible service. For businesses with multiple directors or Individuals with Significant Control (PSCs) requiring verification, an ACSP can efficiently manage all checks, and some may also offer bulk discounts for these services.

Simplifying Identity Verification: How ACSP Acts as Your Authorized Agent with Companies House.

ACSP is an authorized agent, licensed to verify identity with Companies House on your behalf, simplifying the process and acting as an intermediary. Hiring and working with a licensed ACSP simplifies the ID verification process and eliminates the hassle of creating a GOV.UK One Login account. Verify your identity easily with ACSP; our Companies House-approved service streamlines the business registration process across the UK.
IDVT helps ACSPs quickly and easily verify client identities, meeting the ECCTA 2023 and Companies House requirements and standards. ACSPs use online platforms and manual checks to verify identities to the Companies House standard, often employing Identity Document Validation Technology (IDVT) to verify documents such as passports and driving licenses.

Ensure smooth business operations by providing essential details for directors and PSCs. Our ID verification service starts at just £30. Quick and efficient!

To ensure the smooth operation of your business, it is essential to provide the ACSP with personal details for each director and Person with Significant Control (PSC). This includes their full legal name, date of birth, and current residential address. The ACSP will leverage this information to conduct thorough identity verification, which typically necessitates a valid form of photographic ID, such as a biometric passport from any country. Depending on individual circumstances, especially for non-UK nationals or residents, proof of address dated within the last three months may also be required.
We take pride in offering competitive rates for our ACSP services. The fee for verifying your documents is just £40.00 per person when we are solely focused on ID verification. If this verification is part of our comprehensive company formation service, the fee is an attractive £30. Rest assured, our pricing remains consistent even for bulk verifications. Typically, the verification process is quick and efficient, taking only a few minutes once you have uploaded all the required documents into the ID verification system. Let us help you navigate this process with ease and confidence!

The Role of IDVT in Modern Identity Verification: Ensuring Authenticity of Passports and Licenses.

IDVT, which stands for Identity Document Validation Technology, is a system that performs digital checks to verify the authenticity of identity documents, such as passports and driving licenses. It utilizes advanced software to scan these documents and identify signs of tampering or forgery that may not be apparent to the human eye. IDVT represents a type of technology that can quickly and effectively help you establish the authenticity of documents presented for identity verification purposes.
IDVT is a method for confirming the authenticity and validity of identity documents such as passports, driver’s licenses, and ID cards. This technology quickly verifies these documents to prevent fraud, utilizing methods like Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and Near Field Communication (NFC). How IDVT works:

1. It extracts data from the ID document, such as the name, date of birth, and document number.
2. It uses technologies like Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and Near Field Communication (NFC) to process the information.
3. Software compares the document’s security features against a template and checks for signs of fraud or alteration. Additional checks like liveness checks may be used to ensure the person presenting the document is physically present.

Benefits of IDVT

1. Reduces fraud:
   It is more effective at detecting fraudulent documents compared to manual checks.
2. Increases speed and efficiency:
   It simplifies the verification process, which saves time for both individuals and organizations.
3. Enhances security:
   It offers a more dependable and secure way to verify identities, particularly for remote checks.
4. Improves accessibility:
   It streamlines the process for individuals to verify their identity digitally from home.

Once you have completed the verification process, Authorized Company Service Providers (ACSPs) can seamlessly guide you in filling out essential forms, such as the IN01 application, to kickstart your company formation journey in the vibrant city of Edinburgh. This invaluable assistance not only expedites your access to the Companies House One Login Service but also ensures a smooth experience.
ACSPs act as dedicated intermediaries, expertly managing the verification process for you. Their support can be particularly advantageous for non-residents, individuals dealing with complex documentation, or anyone seeking the peace of mind that comes with professional guidance. Choosing to work with an ACSP is not just a viable option; it’s a smart and efficient alternative to navigating the verification process directly with Companies House. Embrace the expertise of ACSPs and turn your entrepreneurial aspirations into reality with confidence!

Register your new business corporation or LLC anywhere in the UK with a government-authorized ID verification ACSP provider in Scotland. Obtain a prestigious Scottish registered office address to protect your privacy, enhance your company image, and fulfill legal ID verification obligations.

Many ACSPs, such as Coddan, offer bundled packages that include ID verification (sometimes free) along with a Scotland registered office address service and full company formation. This can be a cost-effective solution for new businesses or non-residents.

These providers specialize in online verification, which is particularly helpful for non-UK residents who might face challenges with the direct UK government’s online ID verification system, often requiring specific UK biometric documents.

To register a company in Scotland with ID verification, you can use an online service to complete the process digitally. This usually involves submitting your personal details and identification. Alternatively, you may choose to work with a third-party service, such as a formation agent or solicitor, who can assist with verification and company registration. The verification process is a mandatory step with Companies House, and you will need to prove your identity with a valid ID, such as a UK passport or driving license.

When registering a company in Scotland, including Edinburgh, it is necessary to verify your identity with Companies House—a requirement for all new incorporations. The ACSP will guide you through their process, which involves providing your details and identity documents via a secure online portal or, in some cases, in person at their office.

To form a company in Scotland, specifically in Edinburgh, you need to complete an online application with a formation agent that includes identity verification. This typically involves submitting personal details and uploading identity and address documents, which can often be done electronically using a passport, driving license, or a recent utility bill. This process is legally required for all directors and significant shareholders and can be completed quickly online.

To complete the registration with ID verification, you can use an online formation agent or the direct service from Companies House. This process includes providing company details, a registered office address, and completing the ID verification, which can be done electronically by uploading documents like a passport or driver’s license along with a recent bank statement or utility bill. Alternatively, you can use the web service by answering security questions and providing details from a photo ID and National Insurance number, or verify your identity in person at a Post Office.

The requirement for a registered office address in Scotland is closely tied to ID verification, due to new UK regulations aimed at increasing transparency and preventing fraud—particularly under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. This means that individuals involved in a company, including directors and people with significant control (PSCs), must have their identities verified by Companies House.

The verification process links a physical Scottish address to the verified identity of the company’s officers, requiring proof of ID, such as a passport or driving license, and sometimes a live selfie for facial recognition. A company officer must complete a one-time identity verification process through the Companies House service. This personal code is used when registering a new company or appointing new officers, linking the verified individual to the company and its Scottish registered office address.

The provision of a registered office address in Edinburgh is also connected to ID verification due to new UK company formation rules under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA), which come into effect on November 18, 2025.

These rules mandate that directors and persons with significant control (PSCs) must verify their identities with Companies House before new companies can be registered. This verification process is utilized by both Companies House and third-party formation agents to comply with anti-money laundering regulations and prevent fraud, ensuring the integrity of the UK’s company register.

Providing a registered office address in Scotland (especially when using a virtual office service) requires the provider to comply with AML legislation. This means they must verify the identity and address of their clients to satisfy regulations set by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

ID verification is a critical and mandatory step for company formation, which is directly linked to the provision of a registered office address. The process is designed to prevent fraud and money laundering. Both Companies House and service providers use it to ensure the accuracy of company information and compliance with legal requirements.

When a company is formed or a new director is appointed, a registered address service in Edinburgh is used to receive official correspondence from government bodies such as Companies House and HMRC. The identity verification process is a prerequisite for registering a company and connects the physical and digital presence of the business.