New Companies House Rules 2026: ACSP and Identity Verification
The UK company registration system is currently undergoing its most significant reform in decades. If you own a UK Ltd or plan to form one, terms like ACSP and Identity Verification will become part of your daily reality in 2026. Formation is no longer just “filling in a form”; it has become a process of transparency and rigorous verification.
In this guide from Eteform.com, we explain how these new laws affect Arab entrepreneurs and how to ensure your company remains legally sound to avoid sudden closure.
What is Mandatory Identity Verification?
Starting in 2025/2026, every company director and every Person with Significant Control (PSC) must verify their identity directly with Companies House.
– How is it done? Via a digital app that uses facial recognition technology to match your face with your passport.
– What if I don’t do it? The company will face fines, and you will be prohibited from filing annual returns, eventually leading to the company being struck off.
The Role of the Authorized Agent (ACSP)
Under the new laws, “unauthorized” individuals can no longer file documents for companies on behalf of others.
1. Eteform as an ACSP: We take responsibility for the pre-verification of our clients, which speeds up the acceptance process at Companies House.
2. Protection: This system protects Arab entrepreneurs from fraudulent or unlicensed agents who might mismanage their legal rights.
Impact on Banks and Stripe
UK banks (like Wise and Revolut) and payment processors (like Stripe) are now linking their systems directly to Companies House records.
– If the register shows “Identity Not Verified” next to your name as a director, the bank may freeze your account until the status is corrected.
– The Benefit: Once verified, opening bank accounts becomes much faster because your company’s “Trust Score” is high.
Compliance Steps for 2026 (How-To)
Step 1: Update Your Passport
Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity. Older, non-biometric passports may be rejected by digital verification systems.
Step 2: Complete the Digital Verification
You will receive an official email from Companies House containing a unique link. Follow the instructions to scan your passport and take a selfie. Eteform provides technical support to its clients to complete this step successfully.
Step 3: Document Legalization
If authorities ask for proof of address, ensure utility bills are translated by a certified service. See our Certified Translation Service.
Comparison Table: Before vs. After the New Rules
| Feature | Old System (Pre-2024) | New System (2025 – 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Identity Verification | Optional / Limited | Mandatory for every Director/PSC |
| Agent Authority | Anyone could file | Only Authorized Agents (ACSP) |
| Data Transparency | Could be inaccurate | Live link with official travel docs |
| Strike-off Speed | Took months | Happens fast upon verification failure |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A: No. Your passport data and selfie remain confidential with Companies House and are not shown on public records. Only a “Verified” badge appears next to your name.
Q: I live in Egypt/Saudi Arabia; how can I verify?
A: The system is 100% digital and works via mobile apps. You can do it from anywhere in the world with an internet connection and a valid passport.
Q: Do these rules increase formation costs?
A: Government fees have increased slightly to cover the cost of new technology, but the benefit is protecting your company from fraud and identity theft.
Conclusion: Comply to Grow
New UK laws aim to make the business environment safer and more transparent. As an authorized ACSP, we at Eteform.com ensure you have a smooth transition to this new system.
Form Your Company Under 2026 Rules or Consult us on Your Current Status.