Israeli nationals who act as directors or people with significant control, known as PSCs, of UK companies must complete Companies House identity verification by the deadline that applies to each role.

After you verify your identity, Companies House gives you an 11-character personal code. The code belongs to you rather than to one company. You can use the same code for every UK company where you act as a director or PSC. However, you must connect it separately to each appointment and role.

Quick Answer for Israeli Directors and PSCs

For most Israeli nationals, a valid Israeli passport provides the clearest Group A identity document.

A physical Israeli driving licence may also provide Group A evidence where the card matches the model listed on PRADO.

For a person-led remote check through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider, or ACSP, you normally need either:

• two Group A photographic identity documents; or
• one Group A photographic identity document and one Group B supporting document.

PRADO’s current Israel page lists passports, a temporary travel document, a visa and one driving-licence model. It does not list the Israeli national identity card, commonly known as a Teudat Zehut. Israeli applicants should therefore not rely on a Teudat Zehut as one of the two required documents under the current published ACSP route.

For many Israeli directors and PSCs, the most practical combinations are:

• Israeli passport and PRADO-listed Israeli driving licence;
• Israeli passport and bank statement;
• Israeli passport and utility bill;
• Israeli passport and mortgage statement;
• Israeli passport and insurance policy;
• Israeli passport and birth certificate;
• Israeli passport and marriage certificate;
• Israeli passport and UK photocard driving licence; or
• Israeli passport and an eligible UK immigration document.

Direct answer: The strongest person-led route will usually use an Israeli passport together with either the PRADO-listed Israeli driving licence or a suitable Group B supporting document.

Important Point About the Israeli Teudat Zehut

Israel issues a national identity card called the Teudat Zehut, Teudat Zehut Biometric, תעודת זהות or Israeli biometric identity card.

The card is an official Israeli identity document. Israeli authorities currently issue biometric identity cards, and holders must activate the card after receiving it.

However, Companies House applies its own document categories. A foreign identity card does not automatically qualify simply because the issuing country treats it as official identification.

Under person-led Option 2, another foreign photographic identity document can qualify where PRADO lists the document. PRADO’s Israel page does not currently contain an identity-card category. The Teudat Zehut also does not appear in the Companies House Group B list.

The practical conclusion is:

Do not rely on a Teudat Zehut as the formal Group A or Group B document for Companies House identity verification under the current published rules.

An ACSP may review the Teudat Zehut as additional evidence. For example, the card may help compare the applicant’s:

• photograph;
• full Hebrew name;
• identification number;
• date of birth;
• former name; or
• information held in the Israeli Population Registry.

It should not replace the passport, PRADO-listed driving licence or Group B supporting document used for the formal document combination.

Why Does the Biometric Teudat Zehut Not Qualify Under Option 1?

Companies House limits its Option 1 biometric identity-card category to cards issued by:

• an EU country;
• Norway;
• Iceland; or
• Liechtenstein.

Israel does not fall within that category. Therefore, the Teudat Zehut cannot qualify under Option 1 merely because it contains biometric information or a chip.

Can You Use a Teudat Zehut Number?

No. The Israeli identity number, known as a Mispar Zehut or מספר זהות, is a personal number rather than a photographic identity document.

Do not submit only:

• a Mispar Zehut;
• a written Israeli identification number;
• a screenshot showing the number;
• a tax document containing the number;
• a Teudat Zehut application receipt;
• a MyGov screen; or
• a Population Registry account page.

The Israeli identification number is also not the same as a Companies House personal code.

What About the Teudat Zehut Appendix?

Israeli identity cards have a separate appendix or slip, often called a sefach or ספח. Israeli authorities allow holders to obtain or replace this appendix and to update it following personal changes such as marriage, divorce or the birth of a child.

The appendix may contain helpful address or family information. However, Companies House does not expressly include a foreign identity-card appendix in Group B.

An ACSP may use it as additional evidence of:

• an Israeli address;
• marital status;
• family relationships;
• a former name; or
• changes recorded in the Israeli Population Registry.

Do not rely on it as the required second document unless the ACSP has confirmed another valid basis for accepting it. A bank statement, utility bill, mortgage statement or insurance policy will normally provide a clearer Group B route.

Israeli Biometric and Non-Biometric Passports

Israeli nationals may hold different passport types.

PRADO currently lists three Israeli ordinary passport models:

• ISR-AO-03001, first issued in 2012;
• ISR-AO-02001, first issued in 2011; and
• ISR-AO-01001, first issued in 1992.

PRADO describes ISR-AO-03001 as an electronic passport model with a maximum validity of ten years.

Israeli Electronic Passport

The electronic passport model ISR-AO-03001 normally provides the strongest document route.

PRADO records this document as:

• an ordinary Israeli passport;
• an e-passport;
• first issued as a model in 2012;
• valid for up to ten years; and
• issued to Israeli nationals.

A current Israeli electronic passport may work through the GOV.UK One Login app where:

• the passport contains a working biometric chip;
• the applicant has a compatible phone;
• the app can read the chip;
• the photograph remains clear; and
• the applicant completes the facial comparison successfully.

Israeli Passports Issued Abroad

Israeli nationals who apply through an Israeli embassy or consulate may receive a non-biometric travel document.

The Embassy of Israel in London states that travel documents printed abroad remain valid for five years and are not biometric. It also explains that an applicant can request a biometric passport through an Interior Ministry office in Israel and arrange for it to be sent to London.

This difference matters because:

• a non-biometric passport will not work through the GOV.UK One Login app;
• the passport may still provide Group A evidence under person-led Option 2;
• suitable IDVT may accept it as a machine-readable passport under Option 1; and
• the ACSP must inspect the exact document model and security features.

Do not assume that an Israeli passport contains a chip merely because it is current. Check the cover for the international biometric-passport symbol.

Older Israeli Passport Models

PRADO lists earlier Israeli passport models, including ISR-AO-02001. That model has a maximum validity of ten years and remains listed as a valid document model.

An older passport may still provide Group A evidence where the individual document:

• remains current or falls within a Companies House passport expiry exception;
• has not been cancelled;
• has not been replaced;
• remains in good condition;
• contains a clear photograph; and
• matches the applicant’s current legal details.

The relevant issue is the status of the individual passport rather than simply the age of its design.

Who Must Complete Companies House Identity Verification?

The requirement applies to Israeli nationals who are:

• directors of UK limited companies;
• becoming directors of UK companies;
• directors of overseas companies registered in the UK;
• registered as PSCs;
• becoming PSCs of existing companies;
• forming UK companies in which they will act as directors or PSCs; or
• applying to register as Companies House authorised agents.

Identity verification became a legal requirement on 18 November 2025. Companies House introduced it through a transition process rather than one universal deadline for every existing director and PSC.

Existing directors normally provide their personal codes through their companies’ next confirmation statements.

A new company must provide a personal code for each proposed director during incorporation. Someone appointed as a new director must also provide the code as part of the appointment filing.

PSCs follow separate 14-day compliance periods. The relevant period depends on whether the PSC also acts as a director and when Companies House first recorded the PSC.

How Can Israeli Nationals Verify Their Identity?

Israeli nationals can use one of two main routes.

1. Verify Through GOV.UK One Login

Companies House offers a free direct identity-verification service through GOV.UK One Login.

Depending on your documents and circumstances, the service may ask you to:

• use the GOV.UK One Login app;
• answer security questions online; or
• attend a participating UK Post Office.

The system chooses the available route based on your documents, device and access to relevant UK records.

Using an Israeli Biometric Passport

An Israeli national can normally try the app route with a current biometric passport.

The app accepts a non-UK passport with a biometric chip. You must:

1. photograph the passport’s personal-details page;
2. scan the electronic chip;
3. scan your face; and
4. complete the remaining identity questions.

You must use the original passport. The app does not accept a photocopy, digital copy or expired passport.

Can You Use a Non-Biometric Israeli Passport in the App?

No. The app requires a biometric chip in a non-UK passport.

An Israeli passport or travel document printed abroad may remain legally valid while lacking the chip needed by GOV.UK One Login. In that situation, an ACSP may still be able to use the document under Option 1 or Option 2.

Can You Use a Teudat Zehut in the App?

No published GOV.UK One Login route lists the Israeli identity card as an accepted app document.

The app currently accepts:

• a UK passport;
• a non-UK passport with a biometric chip;
• a UK photocard driving licence;
• certain UK biometric immigration documents; or
• a UK Frontier Worker permit.

A chip-enabled Teudat Zehut does not enter the app’s document list merely because it contains biometric information.

Can You Use an Israeli Driving Licence in the App?

Not as the app’s driving-licence document.

The app accepts a UK photocard driving licence rather than an Israeli licence. A qualifying Israeli driving licence may still work through a person-led ACSP check because PRADO lists a specific Israeli driving-licence model.

Answering Security Questions

Some Israeli nationals who live in the UK may receive the option to answer security questions online.

This method may use information connected with UK banking, credit, tax, National Insurance or government records. The system decides whether it can offer the route after the applicant provides the initial information.

An overseas Israeli director with little UK financial history may find this route less practical.

Verification at a UK Post Office

GOV.UK One Login may direct some applicants to a participating Post Office.

You must first:

1. start the Companies House identity-verification service online;
2. enter the requested photographic ID details;
3. receive confirmation that the Post Office route is available;
4. download the customer letter containing the QR code;
5. attend a participating Post Office; and
6. present the original identity document.

The Post Office does not accept a photocopy or digital image. Staff scan the original ID and take the applicant’s photograph. The customer letter normally gives about 15 days to attend.

This route may suit an Israeli national who lives in the UK. It usually offers less convenience to someone living in Israel or another country.

2. Verify Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider

An Authorised Corporate Service Provider can verify a person’s identity for Companies House.

ACSPs commonly include regulated solicitors, accountants and company service providers. Companies House allows an ACSP to complete the checks remotely or in person. The ACSP must register with Companies House and remain supervised by a UK anti-money laundering supervisory body.

The ACSP route may suit an Israeli director or PSC who:

• lives in Israel or another country outside the UK;
• cannot complete GOV.UK One Login verification;
• holds a non-biometric passport;
• cannot scan the Israeli passport chip;
• wants to use a PRADO-listed Israeli driving licence;
• only has a Teudat Zehut as their second photographic document;
• needs help choosing a Group B document;
• has different Hebrew and Latin name spellings;
• has changed their surname following marriage or divorce;
• has an incorrect date of birth at Companies House; or
• wants remote verification by video call.

How Many Documents Do You Need?

The number of documents depends on how the ACSP completes the identity check.

Option 1: Technology-Led Verification

One eligible photographic document may be enough where the ACSP uses suitable identity document validation technology, known as IDVT.

The technology must validate the relevant cryptographic and physical security features.

Companies House permits:

• a biometric or machine-readable passport;
• a UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man or EU photocard driving licence;
• a biometric identity card from the EU, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein;
• certain UK biometric immigration documents;
• a UK Frontier Worker permit; or
• an eVisa.

A biometric or machine-readable passport may be up to six months expired where the technology can still validate its security features.

For an Israeli national, the most relevant Option 1 document will normally be:

• an Israeli electronic passport;
• a machine-readable Israeli passport that the technology can validate; or
• an eligible UK immigration document or eVisa.

An Israeli driving licence does not qualify through the Option 1 driving-licence category because that category only covers specified UK and EU licences.

The Teudat Zehut also does not qualify through the Option 1 identity-card category.

Option 2: Person-Led Remote or In-Person Verification

A trained person may inspect the documents remotely by video call or examine them in person.

Under this route, the applicant must provide either:

• two Group A photographic identity documents; or
• one Group A photographic identity document and one Group B supporting document.

Anyone who lives outside the UK must provide at least one government-issued document.

A passport may be up to 18 months expired under Option 2. However, the issuing authority must not have cancelled or replaced it.

Other documents normally need to remain current unless Companies House provides a specific exception.

Group A Photographic ID for Israeli Nationals

1. Israeli Electronic Passport

The Israeli electronic passport normally provides the strongest Group A identity document.

PRADO lists the current e-passport model as:

• ISR-AO-03001;
• an ordinary Israeli passport;
• first issued as a model in 2012;
• valid for up to ten years; and
• issued to Israeli nationals.

For a person-led Option 2 check, Companies House may accept a passport that expired within the previous 18 months.

However, you cannot use a passport that:

• has been cancelled;
• has been replaced by a newer passport;
• contains cancellation marks;
• has a cut or clipped corner;
• has serious damage around the personal-details page; or
• cannot be validated satisfactorily.

A current passport will normally make the process easier.

2. Non-Biometric Israeli Passport

A non-biometric Israeli passport may still provide Group A evidence.

The lack of a chip mainly affects the GOV.UK One Login app. It does not automatically prevent an ACSP from using the document.

Depending on its model and condition, the passport may qualify:

• under Option 1 as a machine-readable passport; or
• under Option 2 as a Group A passport.

The ACSP must confirm that the passport remains valid, has not been replaced and contains security features that can be checked satisfactorily.

3. Israeli Driving Licence

A valid physical Israeli driving licence may provide Group A evidence under person-led Option 2.

PRADO lists the Israeli driving licence under reference ISR-FO-01001.

The document:

• uses card format;
• was first issued as a model in 2018;
• contains a black-and-white facial image;
• includes a variable laser image and laminate security features; and
• remains listed as a valid document model.

Companies House includes another type of photographic identity document listed on PRADO within Group A. An Israeli licence may therefore qualify where:

• the physical card matches ISR-FO-01001;
• the individual licence remains valid;
• the photograph matches the applicant;
• the card has not been replaced;
• the document shows no sign of alteration; and
• its details match the passport and other evidence.

Send clear images of both sides before the video appointment. You must also show the original physical card during the call.

Does Every Israeli Driving Licence Qualify?

Not automatically.

PRADO lists one specific Israeli driving-licence model. A temporary permit, application receipt, digital record or different card design should not be treated as automatically qualifying.

The ACSP should review:

• the exact card design;
• driving-licence number;
• issue and expiry dates;
• photograph;
• physical security features;
• condition of the card; and
• consistency with the passport.

The Israeli Embassy in London also offers a service through which Israeli citizens living abroad can obtain certification of a valid Israeli driving licence. The applicant must provide copies of both sides of the valid licence and a valid Israeli passport. This may support additional document checks where necessary.

Can You Use a Digital Israeli Driving Licence?

Do not rely on:

• a digital licence screen;
• mobile-wallet record;
• QR code;
• screenshot;
• electronic extract; or
• photograph of the licence

as a replacement for the original physical card.

A person-led check may require the applicant to move or tilt the physical licence so the verifier can inspect its visible security features.

4. Travel Document in Lieu of a National Passport

PRADO lists an Israeli Travel Document in Lieu of National Passport under reference ISR-AP-03001.

PRADO states that:

• Israel first issued the model in 2012;
• it is issued to some people during the first year after obtaining Israeli citizenship;
• it has a two-year validity period; and
• its back cover contains a contactless chip.

A current physical document may potentially provide Group A evidence through the PRADO-listed photographic document route.

However, it requires individual review. The ACSP must check:

• the holder’s nationality and status;
• the exact document model;
• present validity;
• whether a national passport later replaced it;
• any travel restrictions; and
• whether its security features can be validated.

A standard Israeli passport will normally provide a clearer route.

5. Eligible UK-Issued Photographic Documents

An Israeli national living in the UK may also hold another Group A document.

Examples include:

• a UK photocard driving licence;
• a UK biometric residence card;
• a qualifying UK biometric residence permit;
• a UK Frontier Worker permit;
• a photographic government-issued work permit;
• a photographic immigration document;
• a photographic visa; or
• an eVisa under the relevant technology-led route.

The ACSP must review the exact document and apply the current Companies House expiry rules.

An Israeli passport combined with a valid UK photocard driving licence can provide two strong Group A documents.

Israeli Documents You Should Not Rely On as Required Evidence

Teudat Zehut

Do not rely on the Israeli national identity card as one of the required documents.

PRADO does not currently list an Israeli identity-card category, and the Companies House Option 1 identity-card category does not cover Israel.

Teudat Zehut Appendix

The appendix may support an address, family or name-history review. However, Companies House does not include it in the published Group B list.

Population Registry Extract

Israeli citizens and residents can request a Population Registry extract containing the personal details held in the registry. The extract may provide valuable evidence of a name, marital status or another registered detail.

However, Companies House does not expressly include a foreign Population Registry extract in Group B.

Use the document as additional evidence rather than as the formal second document unless the ACSP confirms another valid basis for accepting it.

Israeli Identification Number

A Mispar Zehut does not provide photographic identity evidence by itself.

Digital Government Screens

A MyGov screen, digital identity profile, online Population Registry record or government portal result does not replace an accepted physical document.

Israeli Health Insurance or Membership Cards

Do not rely on a health-fund card, National Insurance record, professional membership card or employee card as one of the required documents. These records do not appear in the current Group A or Group B lists.

Group B Supporting Documents

Where you have only one suitable Group A photographic document, you can provide one Group B document.

Companies House Group B documents include:

• birth or adoption certificate;
• marriage or civil partnership certificate;
• non-photographic immigration document;
• non-photographic visa;
• non-photographic work permit;
• bank or building society statement;
• mortgage statement showing the current address;
• utility bill showing the current address;
• insurance policy showing the current address;
• UK council tax statement; or
• a qualifying UK local-authority or social-housing rental agreement.

An Israeli bank statement, utility bill, mortgage statement, insurance policy, birth certificate or marriage certificate may work where the ACSP can confirm that it:

• belongs to the applicant;
• comes from a genuine issuer;
• clearly shows the relevant personal details;
• contains no sign of alteration;
• supports the claimed identity or current address; and
• provides credible evidence of genuine activity.

Israeli Bank Statements

An Israeli bank statement may provide Group B evidence.

The statement should:

• show the applicant’s full name;
• identify the bank clearly;
• display a recent statement date;
• show genuine account activity;
• remain complete and legible;
• contain no sign of editing; and
• show the current address where the applicant relies on it for address evidence.

A complete PDF downloaded directly from online banking will normally provide stronger evidence than a cropped mobile-banking screenshot.

Companies House also encourages ACSPs to check evidence of genuine activity, such as recent banking or credit-card transactions.

Israeli Utility Bills

An Israeli utility bill may provide Group B evidence where it clearly shows the applicant’s current residential address.

Examples may include:

• electricity bill;
• water bill;
• gas bill;
• fixed-line telephone bill; or
• another genuine household utility account.

The verifier must be able to identify the provider and connect the account to the applicant.

A bill in another household member’s name will not normally establish the applicant’s address without further evidence.

Mortgage Statements and Insurance Policies

An Israeli mortgage statement may provide Group B evidence where it clearly shows the applicant’s current home address.

An insurance policy may also qualify where it identifies the applicant and shows the current address.

The document should come from an identifiable lender or insurer and remain capable of validation.

Israeli Birth Certificates

An Israeli birth certificate may provide Group B evidence.

The Israeli Embassy in London allows eligible applicants to request an official birth certificate for a person born in Israel. The certificate can be issued in Hebrew and English or in Hebrew only.

For Companies House verification, provide the complete official certificate rather than:

• hospital birth notification;
• circumcision or religious record;
• cropped photograph;
• application receipt;
• Population Registry screenshot;
• translation without the original; or
• informal family document.

The ACSP should be able to identify:

• the applicant’s complete registered name;
• date and place of birth;
• issuing authority;
• document date;
• parents’ details where shown; and
• any correction or later amendment.

Israeli Marriage Certificates

An official marriage certificate may provide Group B evidence.

It can also help connect:

• a birth surname;
• spouse’s surname;
• combined surname;
• former married surname; or
• another name used in UK records.

Where an Israeli citizen changes their surname following marriage, divorce or widowhood, the Israeli authorities require an Israeli passport and certified evidence of the change in marital status. The surname change only takes effect after the Population and Immigration Authority approves it.

Provide the complete official certificate rather than only:

• wedding photograph;
• ceremonial document;
• partial scan;
• informal translation;
• religious letter without the formal registration details; or
• online screenshot.

English Translations

Israeli passports and driving licences normally contain Latin-script information that a trained verifier can assess.

Birth certificates, marriage records, bank statements and utility bills may contain important information only in Hebrew or Arabic.

The ACSP may therefore request an English translation where it cannot clearly understand:

• the document type;
• issuing authority;
• applicant’s name;
• current address;
• date of issue;
• name-change information; or
• another material entry.

The translation supports the original document. It does not replace it.

Recommended Document Combinations

Israeli Passport and Israeli Driving Licence

This combination may provide two Group A photographic documents under person-led Option 2.

The passport confirms identity and Israeli nationality. The driving licence provides a second photographic identity document where it matches ISR-FO-01001.

Both documents should show consistent:

• names;
• dates of birth;
• photographs;
• document status; and
• other personal information.

Israeli Passport and Bank Statement

This combination provides one Group A document and one Group B document.

It often offers the clearest route where the applicant:

• does not drive;
• only has a Teudat Zehut as the second photographic document;
• has a driving licence that does not match the PRADO model;
• holds an expired licence; or
• wants to provide evidence of genuine financial activity.

Israeli Passport and Utility Bill

A utility bill may provide the required Group B document where it clearly shows the applicant’s current residential address.

The provider and account information must remain capable of validation.

Israeli Passport and Mortgage Statement

This combination may work where the mortgage statement clearly shows the applicant’s current home address.

Israeli Passport and Insurance Policy

An insurance policy may provide Group B evidence where it identifies the applicant and shows the current address.

Israeli Passport and Birth Certificate

An official Israeli birth certificate may provide Group B evidence.

This combination can help where:

• the Hebrew and Latin name spellings differ;
• Companies House omits one of several forenames;
• the passport and company record use different name formats;
• the applicant changed their name;
• the place or date of birth needs clarification; or
• the verifier needs stronger civil-registration evidence.

Israeli Passport and Marriage Certificate

An official marriage certificate may provide Group B evidence.

It can also help connect:

• birth and married surnames;
• two combined surnames;
• a surname selected after divorce or widowhood;
• a surname shown in the Population Registry; or
• another name used at Companies House.

Israeli Passport and UK Photocard Driving Licence

An Israeli national living in the UK may use a valid UK photocard driving licence as the second Group A document.

This combination can provide two strong photographic identity documents.

Israeli Passport and UK Immigration Document

An eligible UK photographic immigration document may provide another Group A document.

An eVisa may qualify under the technology-led route. The ACSP must review the exact status and available evidence.

Israeli Names, Hebrew Spellings and Transliteration

Israeli identity records require careful name checks.

Hebrew and Latin Name Differences

Israeli records may display names in both Hebrew and Latin script.

Different records can use different Latin spellings because of:

• Hebrew-to-Latin transliteration;
• a corrected spelling;
• an older passport spelling;
• an English version of a Hebrew forename;
• joined or separated name elements;
• hyphens or apostrophes;
• different treatment of prefixes;
• an informal business name; or
• a former surname.

Israeli consular guidance specifically recognises that inconsistencies can arise between the Hebrew and Latin spelling of a first or last name. It also allows applicants to request corrections where the name in a birth certificate does not match the Population Registry.

The current passport’s Latin spelling will normally provide the clearest starting point for a Companies House check.

Several Forenames and Everyday Names

An Israeli passport may show more than one forename, while a bank statement or company record may show only the name used in everyday life.

For example, separate records may:

• include or omit a second forename;
• use an initial;
• use an English version of a Hebrew name;
• join two names with a hyphen;
• separate a compound surname; or
• reverse the order of two name elements.

A shorter name does not automatically mean that the documents belong to different people. However, the complete evidence must support one consistent identity.

Surname Prefixes, Spaces and Hyphens

Israeli surnames may include prefixes or compound elements.

A UK record may remove or alter:

• a hyphen;
• an apostrophe;
• a space;
• a prefix such as Ben or Bar;
• punctuation; or
• another transliteration feature.

The ACSP should compare the passport, machine-readable information, driving licence, supporting documents and Companies House record.

Married and Former Surnames

Israeli citizens and residents can formally choose a surname following marriage, divorce or widowhood.

The Israeli Embassy requires:

• an Israeli passport;
• certified evidence of the change in marital status;
• a notice selecting the surname; and
• an update to the marital-status record.

The change only takes effect after approval by the Population and Immigration Authority. An updated passport may then be issued.

This can create differences where:

• the passport shows a birth surname;
• a UK bank account uses the spouse’s surname;
• Companies House records a combined surname;
• the Teudat Zehut has already been surrendered for updating; or
• the marriage or divorce has not yet been registered in Israel.

Provide the marriage, divorce or death certificate together with all relevant identity documents.

Formal Changes of Name

Israeli citizens and residents can apply to change a first or last name.

Consular guidance requires the applicant to submit the Teudat Zehut and biometric passport, where available. A new travel document will only be issued after the authorities process the name change.

Where Companies House records the former name, useful evidence may include:

• current passport;
• former passport;
• official name-change confirmation;
• birth certificate;
• marriage or divorce certificate;
• Population Registry extract; or
• another document that connects the former and current names.

Check Your Date of Birth Before Verification

The date of birth linked to your personal code must match the date held by Companies House.

Problems can arise where:

• Companies House holds the wrong date;
• someone made an error during incorporation;
• the passport and birth certificate show different information;
• the Population Registry contains an error;
• the ACSP submits incorrect information; or
• someone enters the personal code incorrectly.

Israeli consular services allow applicants to request corrections to a place or date of birth in the Population Registry, normally using an authenticated birth certificate.

Companies House may prevent the personal code from connecting to a director or PSC role where the details do not match. Correct any inaccurate date of birth before the compliance deadline.

Is a Mispar Zehut the Companies House Personal Code?

No.

A Mispar Zehut belongs to Israel’s national identity and Population Registry system.

The Companies House personal code is a separate 11-character code created after successful Companies House identity verification.

Do not enter any of the following when Companies House asks for your personal code:

• Mispar Zehut;
• Teudat Zehut number;
• Israeli passport number;
• driving-licence number;
• UK National Insurance number;
• company authentication code;
• tax number; or
• immigration application reference.

Same-Day Remote Verification by Video Call

Our Legal Consultant is registered with Companies House as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider.

Through our partner solicitor, we can arrange remote Companies House identity verification by video call for Israeli directors and PSCs.

Same-day identity checks and ACSP submission may be available where:

• we review and approve the documents in advance;
• the applicant provides all required personal information;
• the document combination meets the Companies House standard;
• the applicant has the original documents during the call;
• the verifier can validate the documents;
• the applicant appears clearly on camera;
• the Companies House information matches; and
• no unresolved identity, document or compliance concern arises.

For many person-led Israeli cases, the applicant should prepare:

• an Israeli passport; and
• either a PRADO-listed Israeli driving licence or a suitable Group B supporting document.

Same-day service covers the identity check and ACSP submission. Companies House controls the later processing and delivery of the personal code.

After an ACSP completes the verification, Companies House sends the personal code to the applicant’s individual email address. Companies House states that the email should normally arrive within a few hours, although that timing is not guaranteed.

How the Remote Verification Process Works

Step 1: Send Your Documents

Send clear images of the documents you want to use.

For a passport, provide:

• the complete personal-details page;
• any observation page;
• any page showing a name amendment; and
• any relevant endorsement.

For an Israeli driving licence, send both the front and reverse.

Regarding a bank statement, utility bill, mortgage statement, insurance policy, birth certificate or marriage certificate, send the complete document rather than a cropped screenshot.

You must also provide:

• your full name;
• all former names;
• your date of birth;
• your current home address;
• your address history for the previous 12 months; and
• your individual email address.

Companies House requires ACSPs to collect this information and retain the required verification evidence for seven years.

Step 2: Confirm the Document Combination

We check whether each document falls within Group A or Group B.

The review may cover:

• whether the Israeli passport is biometric or non-biometric;
• whether the passport chip works;
• whether the passport was issued in Israel or abroad;
• whether the driving licence matches ISR-FO-01001;
• whether the applicant proposes to rely on a Teudat Zehut;
• the printed expiry dates;
• the physical condition of each document;
• Hebrew and Latin name spellings;
• former and married surnames;
• the current residential address; and
• the previous 12 months of address history.

Where the proposed evidence does not meet the standard, we identify a stronger document combination before arranging the video call.

Step 3: Attend the Video Call

During the call, you must:

• appear clearly on camera;
• show the original documents;
• move or tilt them when requested;
• display their security features from different angles;
• confirm your personal information;
• complete a live facial comparison; and
• answer any necessary identity questions.

The verifier must confirm that you are a real person, the documents appear genuine and the identity belongs to you.

Step 4: Complete the ACSP Submission

After completing the required checks, the ACSP submits the verification information to Companies House.

The ACSP does not normally send the document copies to Companies House. However, it must keep:

• copies of the documents;
• supporting evidence;
• records of the checks;
• details of failed verification attempts; and
• other required verification information.

The ACSP must retain these records for seven years from the date it completes the identity verification.

Step 5: Receive Your Personal Code

Companies House sends the 11-character personal code to the individual email address supplied during the ACSP submission.

Make sure that the email address is correct and that you can access it.

Keep the code secure. You may share it with a trusted solicitor, accountant or company administrator who needs to file on your behalf.

How Israeli Directors Use the Personal Code

An existing director normally provides the personal code through the company’s next confirmation statement.

A new director provides the code as part of the appointment filing.

When forming a new company, the incorporation application must include a personal code for each proposed director.

You only need to verify your identity once. However, you must connect the same code to every separate director appointment that you hold.

How Israeli PSCs Use the Personal Code

A PSC must connect the personal code separately to the PSC role.

This applies even where the same person has already provided the code as a director.

The deadline depends on the circumstances:

• A person who acts as both director and PSC of the same company normally provides the PSC code during the 14 days beginning on the day after the company’s confirmation statement date.
• A PSC who does not act as a director of the same company normally provides the code during the first 14 days of their birth month.
• A new PSC may provide the code when Companies House first records the PSC or within 14 days of being added.

The same personal code can cover several companies and roles. You must still connect it separately to every relevant director and PSC position.

How Our Legal Consultant Can Help

Our Legal Consultant and partner solicitor can help Israeli nationals by:

• reviewing Israeli electronic passports;
• checking non-biometric passports issued abroad;
• assessing whether a passport should work through GOV.UK One Login;
• reviewing Israeli driving licences;
• checking whether a licence matches ISR-FO-01001;
• explaining why a Teudat Zehut does not currently replace an accepted document;
• reviewing a Teudat Zehut appendix or Population Registry extract as additional evidence;
• confirming the correct Group A and Group B combination;
• reviewing Israeli bank statements and address documents;
• checking Israeli birth and marriage certificates;
• comparing Hebrew and Latin name spellings;
• checking surname changes following marriage or divorce;
• connecting birth, married and former names;
• identifying date-of-birth and address differences;
• arranging a remote video call;
• completing the required ACSP checks;
• submitting the verification to Companies House; and
• helping the applicant progress towards receiving the personal code.

Ginkgo Advisory’s Role

Our Legal Consultant and partner solicitor provide the identity-verification service.

Ginkgo Advisory supports the process through:

• preliminary document review;
• client communication;
• document coordination;
• appointment arrangements; and
• practical case handling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Israeli passport?

Yes.

An Israeli passport provides Group A photographic identity evidence. The current electronic model ISR-AO-03001 may also work through the GOV.UK One Login app where its chip can be read successfully.

Can I use an expired Israeli passport?

Potentially, depending on the route.

The GOV.UK One Login app does not accept an expired passport.

Under ACSP Option 1, suitable technology may accept a biometric or machine-readable passport that expired within the previous six months.

A person-led Option 2 check may accept a passport that expired within the previous 18 months.

The passport must not have been cancelled or replaced.

Can I use a non-biometric Israeli passport?

Potentially.

A non-biometric passport will not work through the GOV.UK One Login app. However, it may provide Group A evidence through an ACSP under Option 1 or Option 2.

How Do I Know Whether My Israeli Passport Is Biometric?

Check the front cover for the international biometric-passport symbol.

A biometric passport should contain a chip that a compatible phone can read. The PRADO-listed ISR-AO-03001 model is an e-passport.

Can I Use an Israeli Passport Issued by the London Embassy?

Potentially.

The London embassy states that travel documents printed abroad are valid for five years and are not biometric. Such a document may provide Group A evidence through an ACSP but will not normally work through the GOV.UK One Login app.

Can I Use My Teudat Zehut?

Do not rely on it as one of the required documents.

PRADO does not currently list an Israeli identity-card category. The Teudat Zehut also falls outside the Companies House Option 1 biometric identity-card category.

Can I Use My Biometric Teudat Zehut?

Not as the formal Group A or Group B document under the current published route.

The card’s biometric status does not change the Companies House document categories.

Can I Use My Mispar Zehut?

No.

The number is a personal identifier rather than a photographic identity document. It is also different from the Companies House personal code.

Can I Use My Teudat Zehut Appendix?

Do not rely on it as the required Group B document.

The appendix may provide useful additional information about an address, family relationship or personal change, but Companies House does not expressly include it in Group B.

Can I Use an Israeli Population Registry Extract?

It may provide helpful additional evidence of information held in the Israeli Population Registry.

However, Companies House does not expressly list a foreign Population Registry extract in Group B. Use it alongside an accepted document combination.

Can I Use My Israeli Driving Licence?

Potentially.

PRADO lists the Israeli driving licence model ISR-FO-01001. A physical card that matches the model, remains valid and passes the required checks may provide Group A evidence under person-led Option 2.

Does Every Israeli Driving Licence Qualify?

No.

The exact card must match the PRADO-listed model. Send clear images of both sides for review before relying on it.

Can I Use a Digital Israeli Driving Licence?

Do not rely on the digital version alone.

Prepare the original physical card so the verifier can inspect its photograph and visible security features.

Can I Use My Israeli Driving Licence Through GOV.UK One Login?

Not as the app’s driving-licence document.

The app accepts a UK photocard driving licence. An Israeli licence may still work through an ACSP under the PRADO route.

Can I Use an Israeli Travel Document in Lieu of a Passport?

Potentially, but the document requires individual review.

PRADO lists ISR-AP-03001 as a temporary travel document. It normally has two-year validity and may be issued during the first year after a person obtains Israeli citizenship.

Can I Use an Israeli Bank Statement?

Potentially.

A bank statement falls within Group B. The document must be genuine, complete, clear and capable of validation.

Can I Use an Israeli Utility Bill?

Potentially.

A utility bill falls within Group B where it clearly shows the applicant’s current residential address.

Can I Use an Israeli Mortgage Statement?

Potentially.

A mortgage statement may provide Group B evidence where it clearly shows the applicant’s current home address.

Can I Use an Israeli Insurance Policy?

Potentially.

An insurance policy may provide Group B evidence where it clearly shows the applicant’s current address.

Can I Use an Israeli Birth Certificate?

Potentially.

A birth certificate falls within Group B. Israeli birth certificates can be requested in Hebrew and English or in Hebrew only.

Can I Use an Israeli Marriage Certificate?

Potentially.

A marriage certificate falls within Group B and may help connect birth, married and former surnames.

Do Israeli Documents Need an English Translation?

Some documents may need a translation.

Israeli passports and driving licences normally include Latin-script information. Birth certificates, marriage records, bank statements and utility bills may contain important information only in Hebrew or Arabic.

Provide both the original and an English translation where requested.

What If My Hebrew and Latin Names Are Spelled Differently?

Send the complete document set for review.

Israeli consular guidance recognises that inconsistencies may arise between Hebrew and Latin spellings. The ACSP should compare the current passport, birth certificate, Population Registry details and Companies House record.

What If Companies House Omits One of My Forenames?

Provide the passport and supporting documents.

A shortened company record may still relate to the same person. The verifier must confirm that the complete evidence supports one identity.

What If My Name Contains a Hyphen, Apostrophe or Prefix?

Send all relevant documents.

The ACSP should compare the exact punctuation, spaces and word order shown on the passport, driving licence and Companies House register.

What If I Changed My Surname After Marriage?

Provide:

• the current passport;
• marriage certificate;
• former passport where available;
• updated Population Registry evidence; and
• documents showing the surname used at Companies House.

An Israeli surname change following marriage only takes effect after the Population and Immigration Authority approves it.

What If I Changed My Name Formally?

Provide the official name-change evidence and current passport.

Israeli consular guidance requires the Teudat Zehut and biometric passport, where available, during the name-change process.

Can I Verify My Identity While Living in Israel?

Yes.

An ACSP can complete the check remotely from any country where the documents meet the Companies House standard and the video process allows the verifier to confirm the applicant’s identity.

Do I Always Need Two Documents?

You need two documents for a person-led remote or in-person Option 2 check.

One eligible document may be enough under Option 1 where suitable technology validates all required security features.

Must I Post My Original Israeli Passport?

Usually not for an approved remote video process.

You send clear images for preliminary review and show the original documents during the video call.

Can I Use One Personal Code as Both a Director and PSC?

Yes.

The personal code belongs to you. However, you must connect it separately to your director role and PSC role.

Can You Complete the Verification on the Same Day?

Same-day identity checks and ACSP submission may be available where:

• we approve the document set in advance;
• the applicant provides all required information;
• the documents pass the necessary checks;
• the Companies House record matches;
• the applicant completes the video call; and
• no unresolved identity or compliance concern remains.

Companies House controls when it issues and delivers the personal code.

Need Companies House Identity Verification for an Israeli Director or PSC?

Israeli nationals will usually have one of these practical document routes:

• an Israeli electronic passport plus a PRADO-listed Israeli driving licence;
• an Israeli passport plus an accepted Group B supporting document;
• an Israeli passport plus a valid UK photocard driving licence;
• an Israeli passport plus an eligible UK immigration document; or
• one biometric or machine-readable Israeli passport under a suitable technology-led Option 1 process.

Unlike nationals of some EU countries, Israeli applicants should not currently rely on a Teudat Zehut as the second Group A document. PRADO does not list an Israeli identity-card category.

Some cases need extra care, especially where the applicant has:

• only a Teudat Zehut as the second photographic document;
• only a Teudat Zehut appendix or Population Registry extract;
• a non-biometric passport issued abroad;
• a passport that the GOV.UK One Login app cannot read;
• an expired, damaged or replaced passport;
• a driving licence that does not match the PRADO model;
• only a digital driving licence;
• different Hebrew and Latin name spellings;
• several forenames;
• a compound or hyphenated surname;
• a married or former surname;
• an unprocessed Israeli name change;
• an incorrect date of birth; or
• information that does not match the Companies House register.

Our Legal Consultant and partner solicitor can review your documents, confirm the most suitable route and arrange remote Companies House identity verification by video call.

Same-day identity checks and ACSP submission may be available where the applicant provides a complete and suitable document set.