Guide to ACSP Identity Verification for Non-Residents

If you are a director or Person with Significant Control (PSC) of a UK limited company but live abroad, you now have to complete identity verification with Companies House - and overseas director identity verification can feel confusing when you are not in the UK. Since November 2025, under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA), every director and PSC must verify their identity, wherever in the world they live.

This guide explains identity verification in the UK for overseas directors from start to finish, and how non-UK director verification actually works when you use an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) - usually the fastest and most straightforward option for non-residents. It is completed entirely online: no travel, no Post Office visit, and no need to hold UK documents.

Why Identity Verification is Now Mandatory

Companies House now requires every director and PSC to confirm their identity to reduce fraud and improve corporate transparency. This applies to new appointments (mandatory since November 2025) and existing directors and PSCs (transition period until late 2026). Once verified, you receive a personal code used for direct filings. Failure to verify risks queries, restrictions, or even removal from the register.

Two Ways to Get Verified as a Non-Resident

Directly via GOV.UK One Login (free). You create a GOV.UK account, upload ID and proof of address, and complete verification. Challenges for non-residents include limited accepted documents (mainly UK-issued), strict proof-of-address rules, and potential delays or rejections for overseas addresses.

Through a registered ACSP (paid). An authorised provider performs the verification on your behalf and submits it directly to Companies House. Advantages for non-residents include a broader range of accepted international documents, no need for UK proof of address, faster processing (often under one hour), and a fully remote process with no post or in-person visits.

Step by Step: Getting Verified via an ACSP

• Book and pay online through a simple checkout.

• Complete a short form with basic details: name, company number and role.

• Use your mobile to take a picture of your ID (passport, national identity card or driving licence) plus a live selfie for biometric verification.

• We review and submit. As a registered ACSP (AP003554, HMRC-supervised XKML00000206994), we verify your identity and file directly with Companies House.

• Receive confirmation. You will get your personal code quickly, usually within minutes.

Who Should Use an ACSP for Verification?

• Directors living outside the UK.

• Those with non-UK passports or ID.

• Anyone who found GOV.UK One Login difficult or time-consuming.

• Companies with multiple overseas directors, where bulk discounts are available.

From spring 2026, only ACSPs can file on behalf of clients. Getting verified now prepares you for seamless ongoing support such as confirmation statements and changes. If you are a director ready to get verified quickly and remotely, we are here to help.

Do overseas and non-UK resident directors have to verify their identity?

Yes. The ECCTA rules apply to every director and PSC of a UK company regardless of where they live. Non-UK residents must complete the same identity verification as UK-based directors.

What is the easiest way for a non-resident director to get verified?

For most overseas directors, an authorised ACSP is the simplest route. It is 100% remote, accepts a wide range of international documents, and does not require a UK address or a GOV.UK One Login account.

What documents can overseas directors use?

A government-issued photographic ID from almost any country - typically an international passport or a national identity card. Non-biometric passports are usually accepted too.

Can I verify without a UK address or UK documents?

Yes. Non-UK director verification through an ACSP uses electronic checks and your home address as entered on the form, so you do not need UK documents or UK address history.

How long does it take, and what does it cost?

Verification is usually completed in under an hour once your documents are submitted. Fundsure's ACSP identity verification is £49 plus VAT per person.