ECCTA Identity Verification 2026 — What UK LTD Directors Must Know
New Identity Verification Rules Are Coming
If you’re a director or Person with Significant Control (PSC) of a UK Limited company, the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA) introduces mandatory identity verification. The 12-month transition period began in November 2025, meaning the deadline is approximately November 2026.
Who Needs to Verify?
- All company directors
- Persons with Significant Control (PSC)
- Anyone filing documents on behalf of a company
How to Verify
There are two routes:
- Direct verification via GOV.UK One Login — verify your identity directly with Companies House using the government’s digital identity service.
- Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) — a registered intermediary (like an accountant or formation agent) can verify your identity on your behalf.
What Happens If You Don’t Verify?
Failure to verify by the deadline can result in:
- Criminal prosecution
- Civil penalties (fines)
- Your company being marked as non-compliant on the public register
- Restrictions on filing documents and making changes to your company
What Should LTD Directors Do Now?
Don’t wait until the deadline. Start preparing:
- Ensure all director and PSC information on Companies House is up to date
- Prepare valid identification documents (passport, driving licence)
- Check whether your formation agent or accountant will become an ACSP
- Set a reminder for Q3 2026 at the latest
Need Help With Your UK LTD?
At Semper Paratus Legal House, we help Polish entrepreneurs register and maintain UK Limited companies. If you have questions about ECCTA compliance, company formation, or UK accounting, get in touch with us.
📞 UK: +44 745 638 6117 | PL: +48 530 447 230
📧 [email protected]
🔗 Book a consultation: https://calendly.com/semperparatus/
🏢 42-44 Bishopsgate, EC2N 4AH, London
