UK Company – New Rules from 2025

Important changes for UK-registered companies

From late 2024 into 2025, several key regulatory changes have come into effect for companies registered in the United Kingdom. These updates are particularly relevant for international entrepreneurs and small business owners operating through a UK company structure.

🔍 1. Mandatory transparency on company ownership

As of December 2024, Companies House has introduced stricter transparency rules regarding company ownership:

• All companies must now provide detailed information about their beneficial owners (persons with significant control).

Failing to update this information may result in penalties or company suspension

🆔 2. ID Verification for Directors and Owners – What You Need to Know

From 2025, the UK government has made identity verification mandatory for individuals involved in the management or control of a company. This is part of a broader reform under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, aiming to increase accountability and prevent fraud.

🔒 Who must complete ID verification?

The following people must verify their identity through Companies House:

• Directors of UK companies
• Persons with Significant Control (PSCs) – usually shareholders with more than 25% ownership or influence
• Company Secretaries (if appointed)
• Company formation agents and authorised corporate service providers

This applies to both existing companies and all new incorporations going forward.

💻 How is identity verified?

Verification can be completed in two ways:

1. Through Companies House directly
   Individuals will use the new Companies House online portal to upload official ID (e.g. passport, national ID card) and complete a facial recognition check – similar to modern online banking apps.
2. Via an Authorised Agent – like us
   At GP Zolee Accounting, we are an Authorised Agent, meaning we can verify your identity on your behalf using approved verification software.
   ✅ We handle the entire process securely and efficiently – no need to deal with the UK portal yourself.
   ✅ This is especially useful for international clients without a UK address or ID.

⚠️ Note: Without verified ID, a person cannot be appointed as a director or file company documents.

📆 When does this take effect?

• The system is being rolled out during 2025, with full enforcement expected by the end of the year.
• Existing company officers will be given time to complete verification, but non-compliance will lead to penalties.

🚫 What happens if ID is not verified?

• The company may be restricted from filing changes or appointing new officers.
• Unverified persons may be barred from acting in company roles.
• Persistently non-compliant companies may be struck off the Companies House register.

🏢 3. Registered Office – New Requirements

From 2025 onwards, all companies must have a valid and reachable registered office address:

• Virtual office or PO box providers must meet strict new verification standards.
• Companies that cannot be reached via their registered address may be at risk of deregistration.

📑 4. Expanded Financial Reporting for Small Companies

Changes in reporting requirements mean that:

• Some small companies must now file more detailed financial accounts, including breakdowns of revenue, expenses, and number of employees.
• The simplified "micro-entity" accounts regime is now limited to fewer businesses.

📌 What this means for you

✅ Already own a UK company?
Review your records, complete ID checks, and make sure your registered office and beneficial ownership information is up to date.

✅ Planning to start a UK company?
Be ready to provide verified ID, select a compliant registered address, and meet stricter reporting rules.

✅ Need help with compliance?
As an Authorised Agent, we can guide you through every step – including identity verification, Companies House filings, and legal documentation.

🎯 We're here to help

At GP Zolee Accounting, we specialise in helping international entrepreneurs navigate UK company regulations – from formation to ongoing compliance.

• ✅ We are an officially registered Authorised Agent
• ✅ We offer fast and secure ID verification

✅ We take care of reporting, accounting and company filings