Why do we need ID?
Company service providers like us, that provide company formations, address services and other company secretarial services, are required to adhere to Money Laundering Regulations (MLR). This applies to all service companies, much like it does for other professionals such as accountants, estate agents and solicitors.
As such we are required to obtain certain ID documents from clients. We are registered with HMRC and the ICO to ensure that we meet the government’s requirements and by checking the identity of our clients we reduce the opportunity for any business to abuse our services. This means we can protect our address from misuse so you can be sure that your company is registered at our safe, compliant and reputable address.
Who’s ID do we need?
For any ongoing services, such as registered office address, we are required to confirm the identity of :-
All persons named as directors
All persons holding 25% or more of the shares (if different to directors)
The person placing the order (if not named as a director or shareholder)
For UK based customers who purchase a company formation we will perform a digital check of your ID and address using the information you have already provided in your company order form. In some cases we will also request that you provide additional ID documentation.
What ID do we require?
In simple terms, proof of address and photo identity. That is:-
1) Passport photo page or photo driving licence.
2) Utility bill or bank statement in the person’s name showing their home address (not mobile phone bill) dated within the last 3 months.
How do we get it?
For UK customers – We require copies of the above documents, to be delivered by post, email scan or in person. These documents will then be validated electronically by us to confirm your identity and address. They will be requested by us on receipt of your order and will be required before any services can commence (we may also request that certified copies of these documents are sent to us).
Non-UK customers – We will require notarised or solicitor certified copies of your address documents (and a translation if not in English) and passport copies in advance. We will contact you by e-mail to confirm details.
Complete the procedure…
As part of our policy we will attempt to electronically verify all ID documents provided. In addition we may also request certified documents are provided. If we cannot verify the identity documents, or they are not received in time we will not be able to set up any services.
Presuming ID checks are passed then we will be able to provide you with our top rated company formation, company address and company secretarial services.
