Xeinadin has launched a new identity verification service to help company directors and persons with significant control (PSCs) comply with changes to Companies House rules.
As of November, anyone who owns, runs, controls or sets up a UK-based company must verify their identity as part of registration rules. The changes are part of a wide-ranging effort to crack down on fraud and the misuse of company regulations to hide crime.
Our service aims to streamline the one-off verification process that every company director in the UK must undertake in the next 12 months. The government has set up portals to carry out ID verification on its GOV.uk One app and website, with alternative options to complete the process at Post Offices.
However, even before the requirement officially comes into force on November 18th, there have been reports of the process being time-consuming and clunky. Applicants have to submit qualifying ID documents digitally and answer a series of questions. And although directors have until their next confirmation statement to comply, it’s expected that there will be a rush to get the job done in the next couple of months, putting government systems under strain.
Verifications can also be carried out by Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs). As a registered ACSP, Xeinadin has decided to step in and offer clients a simple solution. For a one-off fee starting at £50 + VAT, we will manage the whole process from start to finish, providing a fast, efficient, and trusted alternative that gives you peace of mind that you’ve met your legal obligations in good time.
Why is identity verification now mandatory for directors?
These changes are part of a wider package of reforms introduced by the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA) 2023. The legislation marks one of the most significant shake-ups in the regulation of UK companies in recent history. At its heart is a drive to make it harder for fraudsters and criminals to abuse corporate structures for illicit gain – whether through setting up shell companies, submitting false filings, or concealing beneficial ownership.
To enforce the new rules, Companies House has been granted stronger powers to monitor and challenge information submitted to the company register. Failure to comply with the verification requirements could lead to fines or the striking off of non-compliant companies.
What does the verification process involve?
There are different ID requirements depending on whether you use the GOV.UK One app, website, participating Post Office branches or an ACSP. By choosing an ASCP like Xeinadin, you actually get the largest choice of accepted ID documentation of all the different routes. These include:
- UK photocard driving licence
- UK passport
- non-UK passport with a biometric chip
- UK biometric residence permit (BRP)
- UK biometric residence card (BRC)
- UK Frontier Worker permit (FWP)
- Photographic visas, work permits and immigration documents.
- An assortment of non-photographic ID documents, which must be submitted in combination with at least one photo ID document.
To go through verification with us, we will advise you on the types of documentation we can use, and ask you to submit them either digitally, via post or in person. We will then take charge of validating the documents, and ask you any follow up questions necessary.
Whether you’re setting up a new company, taking on a directorship, or simply preparing for your next confirmation statement, our streamlined professional service can save you time and stress, making sure you don’t miss deadlines and avoid the risk of penalties or regulatory action.
To find out more or to book your verification, please get in touch and we will connect you with your nearest office.
