Belgian 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 Belgian Directors and PSCs

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

A current Belgian electronic identity card, commonly called a Belgian eID, identiteitskaart, carte d’identité or Personalausweis, may also provide Group A evidence. A valid Belgian EU photocard driving licence may provide another Group A document.

For a person-led remote check through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider, known as an 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 lists Belgian passports, national identity cards, driving licences, emergency travel documents and several other Belgian-issued identity documents. Belgian applicants therefore have several practical document combinations.

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

• Belgian passport and Belgian eID;
• Belgian passport and Belgian EU photocard driving licence;
• Belgian eID and Belgian EU photocard driving licence;
• Belgian passport and bank statement;
• Belgian passport and utility bill;
• Belgian passport and mortgage statement;
• Belgian passport and insurance policy;
• Belgian passport and birth certificate;
• Belgian passport and marriage certificate;
• Belgian passport and UK photocard driving licence; or
• Belgian passport and an eligible UK immigration document.

Direct answer: The strongest person-led route will usually use a Belgian passport together with a current Belgian eID or Belgian EU photocard driving licence. If you only have one suitable photographic document, you can normally combine it with an accepted Group B supporting document.

Important Point About the Belgian eID

Belgium issues an electronic national identity card known as the eID.

Depending on the language of issue, the card may be called:

• identiteitskaart in Dutch;
• carte d’identité in French; or
• Personalausweis in German.

The card confirms the holder’s identity and Belgian nationality. It can also contain electronic certificates and biometric information.

Companies House permits a biometric identity card issued by an EU country under the technology-led Option 1 route. It also permits EU biometric identity cards and other photographic identity documents listed on PRADO under the person-led Group A route.

The practical conclusion is:

A current physical Belgian eID can normally provide Group A evidence for Companies House identity verification.

The card must still:

• remain valid;
• belong to the applicant;
• contain a clear facial image;
• show no sign of alteration or serious damage;
• match the applicant’s current legal details;
• not have been reported lost or stolen;
• not have been cancelled or replaced; and
• pass the checks completed by the ACSP or identity-checking technology.

The card’s electronic certificates, PIN codes and online functions do not remove the need to inspect and validate the identity document itself.

Current Belgian eID Models

PRADO lists several Belgian electronic identity-card models.

The most relevant current models include:

• BEL-BO-10003, first issued on 21 October 2024;
• BEL-BO-10002, first issued on 15 July 2021; and
• BEL-BO-10001, first issued on 6 January 2020.

The exact wording and language on the card may vary according to the municipality or authority that issued it.

BEL-BO-10003

The BEL-BO-10003 model is the latest Belgian eID model currently listed by PRADO.

It is:

• issued to Belgian nationals;
• a card-format identity document;
• electronically enabled;
• biometric;
• valid as proof of identity;
• usable as a travel document within the European Union and Schengen-associated countries; and
• available in Dutch, French and German language versions.

This model normally provides a strong route under both Option 1 and Option 2, subject to the ACSP’s technology supporting the card and validating its security features.

BEL-BO-10002

The BEL-BO-10002 model was first issued in July 2021.

It is also:

• issued to Belgian nationals;
• electronically enabled;
• biometric;
• available in Belgium’s national languages;
• valid as an identity document; and
• usable for travel within relevant European countries.

A current individual card under this model may provide Group A evidence.

BEL-BO-10001

The BEL-BO-10001 model was introduced in January 2020.

A card under this model may still provide Group A evidence where:

• the individual card remains current;
• it has not been replaced;
• it has not been cancelled;
• it contains a suitable photograph;
• its details remain accurate;
• it appears genuine; and
• the verifier can validate its security features.

A person-led check may be more practical where the chosen technology cannot validate the exact electronic or biometric features of this earlier model.

Can a Belgian eID Qualify Under Option 1?

Potentially.

Option 1 uses identity document validation technology. One eligible photographic document may be enough where the technology validates all required cryptographic and physical security features.

A Belgian eID can fall within the Option 1 category where:

• it contains the required biometric information;
• it contains a working electronic chip;
• the card remains current;
• the technology supports the exact Belgian card model;
• the technology validates the electronic security features;
• the technology validates the physical security features; and
• the applicant successfully completes the facial and identity checks.

The current BEL-BO-10003 and BEL-BO-10002 models provide the clearest biometric eID route.

General eligibility does not mean that every identity-checking platform supports every Belgian card model.

Can You Use a Belgian eID Under Option 2?

Yes, potentially.

A current Belgian eID may provide Group A evidence under the person-led route.

The verifier should examine:

• the original physical card;
• front and reverse;
• photograph;
• document number;
• National Register number where shown;
• issue and expiry dates;
• nationality;
• visible security features;
• condition of the card; and
• consistency with the passport, driving licence and Companies House record.

You should send clear images of both sides before the video appointment and show the original card during the call.

How Long Is a Belgian eID Valid?

The period of validity depends on the holder’s age and the rules applying when the card was issued.

Common validity periods include:

• six years for applicants aged 12 to 17;
• ten years for adults; and
• historically, up to 30 years for some people aged 75 or over.

From 31 March 2026, newly issued Belgian eID cards for applicants aged 75 or over generally have ten-year validity rather than 30-year validity.

A 30-year card that was validly issued before the change may remain valid until its printed expiry date unless it is cancelled or replaced.

The ACSP should therefore check the individual card rather than assuming that its validity period is incorrect merely because it exceeds ten years.

Can You Use an Expired Belgian eID?

Normally no.

Companies House provides limited expiry exceptions for passports and certain UK biometric immigration documents. It does not provide a general expiry exception for EU national identity cards.

Use a current card or choose another accepted document combination.

Can You Use a Belgian eID That Has Been Replaced?

No.

Do not use an old Belgian eID after a replacement card has been issued.

This applies even where:

• the printed expiry date has not passed;
• the old card appears undamaged;
• the applicant retained the old card;
• the replacement followed a name change;
• the replacement followed a change of personal details;
• the old card was reported lost or stolen; or
• the applicant later recovered the old card.

A cancelled, blocked or replaced card cannot provide Companies House identity evidence.

Belgian Kids-ID Cards

Belgium issues a separate electronic identity document for children under 12 called the Kids-ID.

Current PRADO-listed models include:

• BEL-BO-11005, first issued on 12 November 2024; and
• BEL-BO-11004, first issued on 16 November 2021.

A Kids-ID normally has a maximum validity of three years.

It is not the same document as an adult Belgian eID.

A Kids-ID will not normally be relevant to the identity verification of a UK company director because directors must be at least 16. A minor PSC case involving a Kids-ID should be reviewed individually rather than treated as a routine adult verification.

Belgian National Register Number

Belgian citizens normally have a National Register number.

Depending on the language used, this may be called:

• rijksregisternummer in Dutch;
• numéro de registre national in French; or
• Nationalregisternummer in German.

The number contains 11 digits and commonly appears on the reverse of the Belgian eID.

The first six digits normally relate to the holder’s date of birth.

The National Register number is a personal identifier rather than a photographic identity document.

Do not submit only:

• a National Register number;
• a written 11-digit number;
• a screenshot displaying the number;
• a tax record containing the number;
• a social-security record;
• a Belgian health-insurance record;
• an online National Register screen;
• a MyGov.be profile; or
• a My FILE account page.

The National Register number may help the ACSP compare documents. However, it does not replace the passport, eID, driving licence or supporting document required for the formal Companies House route.

Belgian BIS Number

A person who is not recorded in the Belgian National Register may have a BIS number.

A BIS number is also an 11-digit personal identifier used in certain Belgian administrative systems.

It is not:

• a passport;
• an identity card;
• proof of Belgian nationality;
• photographic identity evidence; or
• a Companies House personal code.

A Belgian national will normally use their National Register information. However, if a document set contains a BIS number, the ACSP should understand why it appears and confirm that it relates to the same person.

Is a Belgian National Register Number the Companies House Personal Code?

No.

The Belgian National Register number belongs to Belgium’s national administrative and identity system.

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

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

• Belgian National Register number;
• Belgian BIS number;
• eID card number;
• Belgian passport number;
• Belgian driving-licence number;
• UK National Insurance number;
• company authentication code;
• Belgian tax number; or
• immigration application reference.

Belgian Digital Identity, itsme and MyGov.be

Belgian nationals may use several digital identity systems.

Examples include:

• electronic functions on the Belgian eID;
• itsme;
• MyGov.be;
• My FILE;
• CSAM digital keys;
• a card reader;
• mobile authentication;
• electronic-signature certificates;
• electronic government mailboxes; and
• online National Register services.

These services may provide reliable access to Belgian government and private-sector services.

However, they do not automatically replace the physical identity documents required under the published Companies House routes.

Do not rely only on:

• an itsme profile;
• a MyGov.be identity screen;
• a My FILE page;
• a digital-wallet display;
• a QR code;
• an electronic-signature certificate;
• a card-reader result;
• a mobile screenshot;
• a National Register download screen; or
• confirmation that a digital login succeeded.

An ACSP may review electronic evidence as supplementary material. It may help confirm:

• the applicant’s full name;
• National Register number;
• current registered address;
• document status;
• electronic identity;
• recent government activity; or
• consistency with official Belgian records.

The formal document combination should still use an accepted passport, physical eID, physical photocard driving licence or Group B document.

Belgian Biometric Passports

The Belgian ordinary passport may be called:

• paspoort in Dutch;
• passeport in French; or
• Reisepass in German.

PRADO lists several current Belgian ordinary passport models.

The most relevant current generation includes:

• BEL-AO-11003, first issued on 1 April 2025;
• BEL-AO-11002, first issued on 1 February 2023; and
• BEL-AO-11001, first issued on 7 February 2022.

Current Belgian Passport Model

The latest Belgian ordinary passport model is BEL-AO-11003.

PRADO records this document as:

• an ordinary Belgian passport;
• first issued as a model on 1 April 2025;
• currently valid;
• issued to Belgian nationals;
• biometric;
• machine-readable;
• available in Belgium’s national languages; and
• issued for up to seven years.

A current Belgian biometric passport normally provides the strongest Group A identity document.

Belgian Passport Validity

A standard Belgian passport is normally valid for:

• seven years for an adult; or
• five years for a person under 18.

The applicant should check the printed expiry date carefully.

A passport may also become unusable before the printed expiry date where:

• it has been reported lost or stolen;
• it has been cancelled;
• it has been replaced;
• it is seriously damaged;
• its pages are full;
• the photograph no longer allows reliable identification; or
• the holder’s personal details have changed.

Belgian Passports Are Biometric

Belgian passports issued under the current generations contain biometric information and an electronic chip.

A current Belgian biometric passport may work through the GOV.UK One Login app where:

• the passport contains a working chip;
• the applicant has a compatible phone;
• the app can read the chip;
• the personal-details page remains clear;
• the applicant successfully scans their face; and
• the identity details match.

Using a Belgian Passport With GOV.UK One Login

A Belgian national can normally try the GOV.UK One Login app with a current biometric passport.

The applicant must usually:

1. photograph the passport’s personal-details page;
2. scan the biometric chip;
3. scan their face;
4. complete the live identity comparison; and
5. answer any remaining questions.

The applicant must use the original passport.

The app does not accept:

• a photocopy;
• a scanned PDF;
• a screenshot;
• a photograph displayed on another device;
• a passport number without the passport;
• a cancelled passport;
• a replaced passport; or
• an expired passport.

Belgian Passports Issued Through the London Embassy

Belgian citizens living in the United Kingdom may apply for a passport through the Belgian Embassy or Consulate where they are properly registered and meet the relevant requirements.

A passport obtained through a Belgian diplomatic or consular post is not a special lower-status passport merely because the applicant applied abroad.

It can still be a standard Belgian biometric passport.

The verifier should check:

• biometric-passport symbol;
• exact PRADO model;
• passport number;
• issue date;
• expiry date;
• chip functionality;
• personal-details page;
• document language;
• document condition;
• any additional-information page; and
• whether another passport has replaced it.

Previous Belgian Passport Models

Earlier Belgian passport models may remain in circulation.

Examples include:

• BEL-AO-10003, first issued in 2019;
• BEL-AO-09003, first issued in 2017; and
• BEL-AO-08001, first issued in 2014.

Because Belgian adult passports are generally valid for seven years, many passports issued under older designs will already have expired. However, the ACSP should assess the individual passport rather than relying only on the model’s original issue date.

An older Belgian passport may 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;
• belongs to the applicant; and
• matches the applicant’s current legal identity.

Can You Use an Expired Belgian Passport?

Potentially, depending on the route.

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

Under ACSP Option 1, suitable identity technology may accept a biometric or machine-readable passport that expired within the previous six months where the technology can still validate its cryptographic security features.

Under person-led Option 2, an ACSP may accept a passport that expired within the previous 18 months.

The passport must not have been:

• cancelled;
• replaced;
• reported lost or stolen;
• physically invalidated; or
• altered.

A current passport will normally provide the clearest route.

Belgian Emergency and Provisional Passports

Belgium may issue emergency or provisional travel documents in limited circumstances.

PRADO lists current Belgian emergency passport models, including BEL-AP-05001, first issued in February 2023.

An emergency or provisional passport may have:

• limited validity;
• a restricted travel purpose;
• limited territorial use;
• fewer electronic features than an ordinary passport;
• no compatible biometric chip; or
• conditions affecting where the holder may travel.

A current physical emergency passport may potentially provide Group A evidence. However, it requires individual review.

The ACSP must check:

• exact document category;
• PRADO reference;
• reason for issue;
• holder’s Belgian nationality;
• issue and expiry dates;
• territorial restrictions;
• whether an ordinary passport later replaced it;
• whether it contains a suitable photograph;
• whether it has been cancelled; and
• whether its security features can be validated.

A current ordinary Belgian passport or eID will normally provide a clearer route.

Who Must Complete Companies House Identity Verification?

The requirement applies to Belgian 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.

This date began a transitional process. It was not 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 the personal code for each proposed director during incorporation.

A person appointed as a new director must provide the code as part of the appointment process.

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 Belgian Nationals Verify Their Identity?

Belgian 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 the applicant’s documents and circumstances, the system may ask them to:

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

The available route depends on the applicant’s documents, device and access to relevant UK information.

Using a Belgian Biometric Passport

A Belgian national can normally try the app route with a current biometric passport.

The app accepts a non-UK passport containing a biometric chip.

The applicant must use the original passport and successfully complete the chip and facial checks.

Can You Use a Belgian eID in the One Login App?

Not under the currently published app document list.

The app currently accepts specified documents such as:

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

A Belgian eID does not become an accepted app document merely because it contains an electronic chip and biometric information.

However, it may still work:

• through an ACSP;
• under person-led Option 2;
• under technology-led Option 1 where suitable technology supports it; or
• through the Post Office route where GOV.UK One Login offers that route.

Can You Use a Belgian Driving Licence in the One Login App?

Not as the app’s driving-licence document.

The app accepts a UK photocard driving licence rather than a Belgian licence.

A qualifying Belgian EU photocard driving licence may still work:

• through an ACSP under technology-led Option 1;
• as Group A evidence under person-led Option 2; or
• at a participating Post Office where the applicant receives that option.

Answering Security Questions

Some Belgian nationals who live in the United Kingdom may receive the option to answer security questions online.

The system may use information connected with:

• UK bank accounts;
• credit cards;
• loans;
• mortgages;
• mobile phone contracts;
• benefits;
• tax records; or
• other UK financial and government records.

The details must match closely.

The applicant may also need specified UK evidence such as:

• UK passport;
• UK photocard driving licence; or
• current account with a UK bank or building society.

A Belgian director who lives outside the United Kingdom or has little UK financial history may find this route less practical.

Name differences can also create problems. For example, the system may not immediately connect:

• a name with an accent against a name without one;
• a surname containing an apostrophe against a surname without punctuation;
• a surname particle written separately against a joined form;
• a complete name against an account showing only one given name;
• a birth surname against an additional married name; or
• a Belgian multilingual record against a differently formatted UK record.

Verification at a UK Post Office

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

The applicant must first:

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

Relevant Belgian documents may include:

• Belgian passport;
• Belgian EU photocard driving licence; or
• Belgian national identity card.

Post Office staff scan the original identity document and take the applicant’s photograph.

The applicant cannot replace the original with:

• photocopy;
• scanned image;
• screenshot;
• digital-wallet display;
• itsme profile;
• MyGov.be screen; or
• photograph displayed on a phone.

This route may suit a Belgian national who lives in the United Kingdom. It usually provides less convenience to someone living in Belgium 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.

The ACSP can complete checks:

• remotely;
• by video call;
• in person; or
• through approved identity-checking technology.

The ACSP must remain registered with Companies House and supervised by a recognised UK anti-money laundering supervisory body.

The ACSP route may suit a Belgian director or PSC who:

• lives in Belgium;
• lives elsewhere outside the United Kingdom;
• cannot complete GOV.UK One Login;
• cannot scan the Belgian passport chip;
• wants to use a Belgian eID;
• wants to use a Belgian EU driving licence;
• only has one photographic identity document;
• needs help selecting a Group B document;
• has accents or punctuation missing from the Companies House record;
• has a Dutch, French or German version of the same name;
• has a birth surname and additional married name;
• has several given names;
• has a compound or particle surname;
• has a Belgian and foreign version of the same name;
• 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 check.

Option 1: Technology-Led Verification

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

The technology must validate all 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.

For a Belgian national, the most relevant Option 1 documents will normally be:

• Belgian biometric passport;
• current Belgian biometric eID;
• current Belgian EU photocard driving licence;
• UK photocard driving licence; or
• eligible UK immigration document or eVisa.

A biometric or machine-readable passport may be up to six months expired under Option 1 where the identity-checking technology can still validate its cryptographic features.

The ACSP must confirm that its technology supports the exact Belgian document.

General eligibility does not mean that every platform can read and validate every Belgian passport, identity-card or driving-licence model.

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.

The applicant must provide either:

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

An applicant who lives outside the United Kingdom 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 Belgian Nationals

1. Belgian Biometric Passport

A current Belgian biometric passport normally provides the strongest Group A document.

Relevant current models include:

• BEL-AO-11003;
• BEL-AO-11002; and
• BEL-AO-11001.

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;
• was reported lost or stolen;
• contains serious damage;
• has an unreadable personal-details page;
• no longer matches the holder’s legal identity; or
• cannot be validated satisfactorily.

A current passport will normally make the process easier.

2. Belgian National Identity Card

A current physical Belgian eID may provide Group A evidence.

Relevant models include:

• BEL-BO-10003;
• BEL-BO-10002; and
• BEL-BO-10001.

The ACSP should review:

• exact card model;
• document number;
• issue date;
• expiry date;
• holder’s Belgian nationality;
• photograph;
• full name;
• date of birth;
• National Register number where shown;
• visible security features;
• electronic features where relevant;
• condition of the card; and
• consistency with the passport and Companies House record.

Send clear images of both sides before the video appointment.

You must also show the original physical card during the call.

Does Every Belgian eID Qualify?

Not automatically.

A card may fail where it:

• has expired;
• has been blocked;
• has been cancelled;
• has been replaced;
• has been reported lost or stolen;
• is seriously damaged;
• contains unreadable personal details;
• shows a former identity that has not been connected to the current identity;
• does not match the applicant;
• cannot be validated by the technology; or
• does not allow a trained person to inspect its security features properly.

Can You Use a Digital Copy of the Belgian eID?

Do not rely on a digital copy alone.

Prepare the original physical card.

A scanned PDF, mobile photograph, MyGov.be display or itsme profile does not replace the physical document for a person-led check.

3. Belgian EU Photocard Driving Licence

A valid physical Belgian EU photocard driving licence may provide Group A evidence.

It may qualify:

• under Option 1 where suitable technology validates it; or
• under person-led Option 2 as an EU photocard driving licence.

The current Belgian driving-licence model is BEL-FO-05001.

It was first issued as a model on 27 December 2019.

PRADO records that the document:

• remains valid;
• uses card format;
• normally has a maximum validity of ten years;
• contains a facial image;
• includes visible security features;
• includes a variable laser image; and
• does not by itself prove Belgian nationality.

Earlier card models may also remain valid, including:

• BEL-FO-04001;
• BEL-FO-04002; and
• BEL-FO-04003.

The exact individual licence must still be current and must not have been replaced.

Does Every Belgian Driving Licence Qualify?

No.

A licence may fail where it:

• has expired;
• has been replaced;
• was reported lost or stolen;
• has been cancelled;
• contains a photograph that no longer supports reliable comparison;
• is seriously damaged;
• belongs to another person; or
• cannot be validated.

The ACSP should review:

• exact card design;
• licence number;
• date of issue;
• expiry date;
• photograph;
• driving categories;
• visible security features;
• physical condition; and
• consistency with the passport, eID and other evidence.

Belgian Driving-Licence Languages

A Belgian driving licence may contain Dutch, French or German wording depending on the place of issue and the holder’s residence.

The language difference does not automatically indicate a different document or identity.

The ACSP should compare the standard numbered EU driving-licence fields and the underlying personal details.

Can You Use a Digital Belgian Driving Licence?

Do not rely on:

• digital licence display;
• mobile-wallet record;
• QR code;
• screenshot;
• government portal record;
• electronic extract; or
• photograph of the licence

as a replacement for the original physical card.

Can You Use an Old Belgian Paper Driving Licence?

An older Belgian paper licence requires individual review.

A paper licence may remain legally usable for driving in some circumstances. However, the standard Companies House driving-licence category refers to a photocard licence.

An old paper licence should not be treated as automatically qualifying.

It may only be considered where:

• it contains a photograph;
• it appears on PRADO;
• it remains legally valid;
• it has not been replaced;
• the applicant shows the original;
• the photograph remains suitable; and
• the ACSP confirms a valid Group A basis.

A current Belgian photocard driving licence will normally provide a clearer route.

Can You Use a Belgian Provisional Driving Licence?

Potentially.

Companies House includes eligible EU photocard provisional driving licences within its driving-licence categories.

However, the ACSP must confirm:

• exact Belgian provisional-licence model;
• whether it is a physical photocard;
• current validity;
• photograph;
• restrictions;
• whether a full licence replaced it; and
• whether the chosen technology supports it.

4. Belgian Emergency Passport

A current Belgian emergency passport may potentially provide Group A evidence.

However, it requires individual review because it may have limited validity, restricted use or fewer electronic security features.

A standard Belgian biometric passport or eID will normally provide a clearer route.

5. Eligible UK-Issued Photographic Documents

A Belgian national living in the United Kingdom may also hold another Group A document.

Examples include:

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

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

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

Belgian Documents You Should Not Rely On as Required Evidence

Belgian National Register Number

A National Register number does not provide photographic identity evidence.

It may help compare records, but the number alone does not replace an accepted document.

Belgian BIS Number

A BIS number is an administrative identifier rather than photographic identity evidence.

It also does not prove Belgian nationality.

itsme and MyGov.be

Do not rely on itsme or MyGov.be as the required identity document.

They may provide supplementary electronic evidence, but they do not replace the accepted Companies House document combination.

My FILE or National Register Screens

A My FILE page, National Register screen or downloadable government profile does not replace the required physical photographic identity evidence.

An official certificate downloaded from a government service may be useful as supplementary evidence. However, it does not automatically become Group A or Group B merely because it came from an official portal.

Expired or Replaced eID Cards and Driving Licences

Companies House does not provide a general expiry exception for a Belgian eID or Belgian driving licence.

Do not rely on a card that:

• has expired;
• has been blocked;
• has been cancelled;
• has been replaced;
• was reported lost or stolen;
• contains materially damaged security features;
• contains unreadable personal information; or
• shows former details that have not been connected to the current identity.

Belgian Kids-ID for an Adult Case

A Kids-ID is intended for a child under 12.

It should not be used for a routine adult director or PSC verification.

Belgian Residence Cards Issued to Foreign Nationals

Belgium issues residence and identity documents to people who are not Belgian nationals.

These documents are not the same as a Belgian national eID and do not prove Belgian citizenship.

A qualifying residence card may still provide photographic evidence under another Companies House category or the PRADO route. However, the ACSP must record the holder’s actual nationality and status correctly.

Belgian Population or Residence Certificates

A certificate of residence, household-composition certificate or National Register extract may help confirm:

• address;
• family composition;
• marital status;
• registered name;
• National Register number; or
• another official detail.

However, Companies House does not expressly list a foreign population-register or residence certificate in Group B.

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

Belgian Health, Student, Employment and Membership Cards

Do not rely on:

• health-insurance card;
• mutuality card;
• student card;
• employee card;
• professional membership card;
• library card;
• public-transport card;
• bank payment card; or
• private club card

as one of the required documents.

Group B Supporting Documents

Where you only have 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
• qualifying UK local-authority or social-housing rental agreement.

A Belgian 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;
• remains complete and legible;
• 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.

Belgian Bank Statements

A Belgian bank statement may provide Group B evidence.

The statement should:

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

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

A statement may:

• omit accents;
• omit an apostrophe;
• join or separate a surname particle;
• use only one given name; or
• show a shortened version of the applicant’s name.

This does not automatically make the statement unacceptable. However, the ACSP must connect it to the passport or eID.

An itsme or banking login without the underlying statement is not enough.

Belgian Utility Bills

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

Examples may include:

• electricity bill;
• gas bill;
• water bill;
• heating bill;
• fixed-line telephone bill;
• internet service bill where treated as a household utility; 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.

A payment notification or direct-debit entry does not necessarily amount to the complete utility bill.

Belgian Mortgage Statements

A Belgian mortgage statement may provide Group B evidence where it clearly shows:

• applicant’s name;
• identifiable lender;
• current residential address;
• statement date; and
• genuine mortgage information.

A property deed, purchase contract or cadastral search is not necessarily the same as a mortgage statement.

Belgian Insurance Policies

A Belgian insurance policy may provide Group B evidence where it clearly identifies the applicant and shows the current residential address.

Examples may include:

• home insurance;
• buildings insurance;
• contents insurance;
• vehicle insurance; or
• another genuine insurance policy.

A quotation, renewal advertisement, payment reminder or marketing email may not amount to the policy itself.

Belgian Birth Certificates

A Belgian birth certificate may be called:

• geboorteakte in Dutch;
• acte de naissance in French; or
• Geburtsurkunde in German.

An official Belgian birth certificate may provide Group B evidence.

Belgian civil-status records may be available as:

• an official extract;
• a certified or official copy;
• a literal or full copy;
• an electronic document from an official government platform; or
• a document obtained from the relevant municipality.

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

• hospital birth notification;
• baptism certificate;
• religious record;
• cropped photograph;
• application receipt;
• National Register screenshot;
• translation without the original; or
• informal family document.

The ACSP should be able to identify:

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

A full copy may be particularly useful where the applicant needs to establish a name change, adoption, parentage detail or civil-status amendment.

Belgian Citizens Born Abroad

A Belgian citizen born outside Belgium may have:

• a foreign birth certificate;
• a Belgian passport;
• a Belgian eID;
• Belgian National Register information;
• a foreign certificate transcribed into the Belgian civil-status registers; or
• evidence of Belgian nationality.

The ACSP may need to connect:

• foreign birth record;
• Belgian nationality;
• Belgian National Register number;
• Belgian spelling of the name;
• foreign spelling of the name;
• parents’ details; and
• current passport information.

Useful evidence may include:

• current Belgian passport;
• current Belgian eID;
• original foreign birth certificate;
• Belgian transcription or civil-status copy;
• Belgian nationality evidence; or
• official name-concordance evidence.

Belgian Marriage Certificates

A Belgian marriage certificate may be called:

• huwelijksakte in Dutch;
• acte de mariage in French; or
• Heiratsurkunde in German.

An official Belgian marriage certificate may provide Group B evidence.

It can also help connect:

• birth surname;
• additional married name;
• former surname;
• double surname;
• name used under another nationality; or
• another name used in UK records.

Provide the complete official certificate rather than:

• wedding photograph;
• ceremonial document;
• partial scan;
• religious record without the relevant civil registration;
• informal translation; or
• online screenshot.

Important Point About Marriage and Belgian Surnames

Under Belgian law, marriage does not generally change either spouse’s legal surname.

Each spouse normally retains the surname held before marriage.

This differs from the position in some other countries where a spouse automatically adopts a married surname.

A Belgian passport is normally issued in the holder’s legal birth or pre-marriage surname.

In some circumstances, a married name may be added separately to another page of the passport on request. However, it does not replace the legal surname shown on the personal-details page.

This can create differences where:

• the Belgian passport shows the birth surname;
• a UK bank account uses the spouse’s surname;
• Companies House records a married surname;
• a foreign passport uses a married surname;
• a professional record uses both surnames; or
• the passport includes an additional married-name annotation.

Provide the marriage certificate and all relevant identity documents so the ACSP can connect the names.

Belgian Citizens Married Abroad

A Belgian citizen who marries abroad may register or transcribe the foreign marriage into the Belgian civil-status system.

The applicant may have:

• foreign marriage certificate;
• apostille or other authentication;
• sworn translation;
• Belgian civil-status extract;
• updated National Register information;
• current Belgian passport;
• current Belgian eID; or
• evidence of the name used under foreign law.

The ACSP may ask for documents connecting the overseas marriage to the applicant’s current Belgian identity.

Divorce and Name-Change Evidence

A divorce judgment, civil-status document or official name-change decision may help connect a former name to the current identity.

These documents normally act as linking evidence.

They do not automatically replace the required Group A or Group B document combination.

Useful documents may include:

• Belgian divorce judgment;
• foreign divorce judgment;
• civil-status extract;
• official name-change decision;
• current passport;
• former passport;
• current eID;
• former eID;
• marriage certificate; or
• evidence showing the current legal surname.

English Translations

Belgian passports, eID cards and driving licences use standard document fields and Latin script.

However, Belgian birth certificates, marriage certificates, bank statements, utility bills, court decisions and civil-status records may contain important information only in:

• Dutch;
• French; or
• German.

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

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

A multilingual form or standard EU document may reduce the need for a full translation. However, the ACSP may still request one where material information remains unclear.

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

Recommended Document Combinations

Belgian Passport and Belgian eID

This combination normally provides two strong Group A photographic documents under person-led Option 2.

The passport confirms identity and Belgian nationality. The eID provides a second government-issued photographic document.

Both documents should show consistent:

• names;
• dates of birth;
• photographs;
• Belgian nationality;
• National Register number where displayed;
• document status; and
• other personal information.

This will often provide the strongest remote combination for a Belgian citizen.

Belgian Passport and Belgian Driving Licence

This combination may provide two Group A photographic documents.

The passport provides identity and nationality evidence. A current Belgian EU photocard driving licence provides a second photographic document.

This route may suit an applicant who:

• does not have a current Belgian eID;
• lives abroad;
• has allowed the eID to expire;
• cannot use the eID through the chosen technology; or
• wants the driving licence to provide another identity comparison.

Belgian eID and Belgian Driving Licence

A current Belgian eID and current Belgian EU photocard driving licence may provide two Group A documents without a passport.

This can be practical where the applicant:

• does not currently possess a passport;
• has submitted the passport for renewal;
• has lost the passport but still holds two valid cards; or
• prefers to use two card-format documents.

The ACSP must still confirm that both cards remain current and have not been replaced.

Belgian Passport and Bank Statement

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

It often provides a clear route where the applicant:

• does not drive;
• does not have a current eID;
• wants to show genuine financial activity;
• needs to establish a Belgian or UK address; or
• has a name-format difference across documents.

Belgian Passport and Utility Bill

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

Belgian Passport and Mortgage Statement

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

Belgian Passport and Insurance Policy

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

Belgian Passport and Birth Certificate

An official Belgian birth certificate may provide Group B evidence.

This combination can help where:

• Companies House omits one of several given names;
• accents are missing from the company record;
• surname punctuation differs;
• the applicant uses different surname forms;
• the applicant changed their name;
• the place or date of birth needs clarification;
• the applicant was born abroad; or
• the verifier needs civil-registration evidence.

Belgian Passport and Marriage Certificate

An official Belgian marriage certificate may provide Group B evidence.

It can also connect:

• legal birth surname;
• additional married name;
• former name;
• double surname;
• foreign-law surname;
• former Companies House name; or
• another name recorded in Belgian civil-status records.

Belgian Passport and UK Photocard Driving Licence

A Belgian national living in the United Kingdom may use a valid UK photocard driving licence as the second Group A document.

This combination provides two strong photographic identity documents.

Belgian 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.

Belgian Names and Multilingual Records

Belgian identity records require careful name checks.

Belgian documents may be issued in Dutch, French or German. The language used does not change the holder’s identity.

Accents and Diacritics

Belgian names may contain accented letters or other characters, including:

• é;
• è;
• ë;
• ê;
• à;
• â;
• ç;
• ï;
• ô;
• ö;
• ü; and
• ß.

A UK company record, banking system or older database may omit or simplify these characters.

For example, separate records may show:

• François and Francois;
• Noël and Noel;
• Maëlle and Maelle;
• Müller and Muller; or
• another simplified machine-readable form.

The absence of an accent does not automatically mean that the records belong to different people.

However, the ACSP must determine whether the complete evidence supports one identity.

Apostrophes, Hyphens and Surname Particles

Belgian surnames may contain:

• apostrophes;
• hyphens;
• spaces;
• particles;
• several surname elements; or
• different capitalisation.

Examples may include:

• D’Hondt;
• d’Hondt;
• De Smet;
• de Smet;
• Van den Berg;
• van den Berg;
• Van de Velde;
• Delcroix-Dubois; or
• another compound form.

A UK system may:

• remove an apostrophe;
• join several words;
• separate a joined surname;
• change capitalisation;
• remove a hyphen; or
• record only one surname element.

These differences do not automatically establish a different identity.

The ACSP should compare:

• visible passport name;
• machine-readable zone;
• eID;
• driving licence;
• bank statement;
• civil-status documents; and
• Companies House record.

Machine-Readable Passport Spellings

The visible name on a Belgian passport may contain accents, apostrophes or spaces.

The machine-readable zone may remove:

• accents;
• apostrophes;
• punctuation;
• hyphens; or
• certain spacing.

This can produce several versions of the same name.

The ACSP should not rely only on the machine-readable spelling or only on the Companies House spelling. It should compare the complete document set.

Several Given Names

A Belgian passport or eID may show several given names.

A person may use only one of them in everyday life.

Separate records may:

• include all given names;
• show only the first given name;
• use an initial;
• omit a second or third given name;
• use a familiar version of the name;
• use only the everyday name; or
• display the names in a different order.

A shortened name does not automatically mean that the documents belong to different people.

However, the complete evidence must support one identity.

Dutch, French and German Field Labels

A Belgian document may use different field labels depending on the language.

For example, the surname and given-name fields may appear in Dutch, French or German.

The verifier should identify the labelled fields correctly rather than assuming that the visual order of the names is the same on every document.

Married and Additional Surnames

Marriage does not normally change a Belgian citizen’s legal surname.

However, a Belgian person may use:

• spouse’s surname socially;
• spouse’s surname professionally;
• both surnames in another country;
• a surname under another nationality;
• an additional married-name annotation in the passport; or
• a name recognised under foreign law.

Where Companies House records a married or combined name, provide:

• current passport;
• current eID;
• marriage certificate;
• foreign passport where relevant;
• additional passport page showing the married name;
• former Companies House records; and
• any official name-concordance evidence.

Belgian and Foreign Versions of a Name

A Belgian national with dual nationality may hold a foreign passport showing a different version of the same name.

Differences may result from:

• different national naming laws;
• use of a married surname;
• omission of accents;
• different surname particles;
• different spacing or hyphenation;
• different treatment of several given names;
• transliteration from another alphabet;
• formal name change; or
• a foreign authority recording a different legal form.

Belgian consular authorities may in some circumstances issue evidence confirming that different names or civil-status descriptions relate to the same person.

Provide all relevant passports and civil-status documents so the ACSP can connect the versions.

Formal Belgian Name Changes

Belgian nationals can apply to change a first name or surname through the appropriate legal or administrative procedure.

After a formal change, the person may need to update:

• passport;
• eID;
• driving licence;
• National Register information;
• bank records;
• insurance records;
• professional records; and
• Companies House information.

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

• current passport;
• former passport;
• current eID;
• former eID;
• official name-change decision;
• birth certificate;
• marriage certificate;
• civil-status extract; or
• official evidence connecting the former and current names.

Check Your Date of Birth Before Verification

The date of birth linked to the Companies House 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;
• passport and company record differ;
• Belgian National Register information contains an error;
• the ACSP submits incorrect information;
• someone enters the personal code incorrectly; or
• a National Register number is copied or interpreted incorrectly.

Do not rely only on the apparent structure of the Belgian National Register number.

Use the passport, eID and official birth evidence.

Companies House may prevent the personal code from connecting to a director or PSC role where the details do not match.

Correct an inaccurate date of birth before the compliance deadline.

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 Belgian 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 Belgian cases, the applicant should prepare one of the following:

• Belgian passport and Belgian eID;
• Belgian passport and Belgian EU photocard driving licence;
• Belgian eID and Belgian EU photocard driving licence; or
• one Belgian passport or eID and 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.

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:

• complete personal-details page;
• any observation or additional-information page;
• any page showing an additional married name;
• any page showing a name amendment; and
• any relevant endorsement.

For a Belgian eID or driving licence, send both the front and reverse.

For 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:

• full name;
• all former names;
• date of birth;
• current home address;
• address history for the previous 12 months; and
• 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 Belgian passport is biometric and machine-readable;
• whether the passport chip works;
• whether the passport matches BEL-AO-11003, BEL-AO-11002, BEL-AO-11001 or another relevant model;
• whether the eID matches BEL-BO-10003, BEL-BO-10002, BEL-BO-10001 or another valid model;
• whether the eID contains the features needed for Option 1;
• whether the driving licence matches BEL-FO-05001 or another current photocard model;
• whether any document has expired;
• whether any document has been blocked, cancelled or replaced;
• physical condition of each document;
• Dutch, French or German wording;
• accents and diacritics;
• apostrophes and surname particles;
• several given names;
• legal birth surname and additional married name;
• Belgian and foreign versions of the name;
• current residential address; and
• 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;
• the identity belongs to you; and
• the evidence meets the Companies House standard.

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 copies of the identity documents to Companies House.

However, it must keep:

• copies of documents;
• supporting evidence;
• records of 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;
• you can access the email account;
• you check the spam or junk folder; and
• you keep the code securely.

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

How Belgian Directors Use the Personal Code

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

A director of more than one company must connect the code separately to each company.

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 normally verify your identity only once.

However, you must connect the same code to every separate director appointment.

How Belgian 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.

Director and PSC of the Same Company

A person who acts as both director and PSC must provide the code separately for each role.

As a director, the person provides the code through the company’s confirmation statement.

As a PSC, the person provides it during the applicable 14-day period beginning on the day after the company’s confirmation statement date.

PSC Who Is Not a Director of the Same Company

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.

New PSC

A person who became a PSC after 18 November 2025 can provide the code when first added to the register or within 14 days of being added.

The same personal code can cover several companies and roles.

However, the person must connect it separately to every relevant director and PSC position.

How Our Legal Consultant Can Help

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

• reviewing Belgian biometric passports;
• checking older Belgian passport models;
• assessing whether a passport should work through GOV.UK One Login;
• reviewing Belgian eID cards;
• checking whether an eID matches a valid PRADO model;
• assessing whether an eID can qualify under Option 1;
• checking unusually long eID validity periods;
• reviewing Belgian EU photocard driving licences;
• checking whether a licence matches a valid model;
• reviewing Belgian provisional driving licences;
• reviewing older Belgian paper driving licences;
• reviewing Belgian emergency passports;
• distinguishing a Belgian national eID from a foreign-national residence card;
• explaining why itsme or MyGov.be does not replace the physical document;
• explaining why a National Register number is not the Companies House personal code;
• reviewing Belgian civil-register or National Register evidence as supplementary material;
• confirming the correct Group A and Group B combination;
• reviewing Belgian bank statements and address documents;
• checking Belgian birth and marriage certificates;
• reviewing foreign certificates transcribed into Belgian registers;
• comparing Dutch, French and German document wording;
• comparing names with and without accents;
• reviewing apostrophes, particles, spaces and hyphens;
• checking several given names;
• comparing legal surnames and additional married names;
• comparing Belgian and foreign versions of 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 Belgian Passport?

Yes.

A Belgian passport provides Group A photographic identity evidence.

The current BEL-AO-11003 model may also work through the GOV.UK One Login app where its biometric chip can be read successfully.

How Long Is a Belgian Passport Valid?

A standard Belgian passport is normally valid for:

• seven years for an adult; or
• five years for a person under 18.

Check the printed expiry date.

Can I Use an Expired Belgian 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, blocked or replaced.

Can I Use an Older Belgian Passport Model?

Potentially.

The ACSP must check:

• exact PRADO model;
• printed expiry date;
• document condition;
• whether another passport replaced it;
• whether it was reported lost or stolen; and
• whether it falls within the relevant Companies House expiry exception.

How Do I Know Whether My Belgian Passport Is Biometric?

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

A biometric passport contains an electronic chip that a compatible phone or identity-checking device can read.

Can I Use a Belgian Passport Issued Through the London Embassy?

Yes, subject to the normal checks.

A passport applied for through the Belgian Embassy can still be a standard Belgian biometric passport.

Can I Use My Belgian eID?

Yes, potentially as Group A evidence.

A current Belgian electronic identity card can normally provide strong photographic identity and nationality evidence.

Can I Use My Belgian eID Under Option 1?

Potentially.

The eID must contain the required biometric information, and the ACSP’s technology must support and validate the exact Belgian card model.

The BEL-BO-10003 and BEL-BO-10002 models provide the clearest current route.

Can I Use My Belgian eID Under Option 2?

Yes, potentially.

A current Belgian eID may provide Group A evidence as an EU biometric identity card or another photographic document listed on PRADO.

Can I Use an Expired Belgian eID?

Normally no.

Use a current card or select another accepted document combination.

Can I Use an eID That Has Been Replaced?

No.

A replaced, cancelled or blocked eID cannot provide Companies House identity evidence.

Is My 30-Year Belgian eID Still Valid?

Potentially.

Belgium previously issued some eID cards with 30-year validity to older applicants.

From 31 March 2026, newly issued cards for people aged 75 or over generally have ten-year validity.

An existing 30-year card may remain valid until its printed expiry date unless it has been cancelled or replaced.

Can I Use a Belgian Kids-ID?

A Kids-ID is intended for a child under 12.

It is not suitable for a routine adult director verification. A minor PSC case should be reviewed separately.

Can I Use itsme?

Do not rely on itsme as the required identity document.

It may provide supplementary electronic evidence but does not replace an accepted passport, physical eID, driving licence or Group B document.

Can I Use MyGov.be?

Do not rely on the MyGov.be profile alone.

Prepare the accepted original physical documents.

Can I Use a My FILE Extract?

It may provide useful supplementary information.

However, a National Register extract or My FILE certificate does not automatically replace the required Group A or Group B document.

Can I Use My Belgian National Register Number?

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 Belgian BIS Number?

No.

A BIS number is not photographic identity evidence and is not the Companies House personal code.

Can I Use My Belgian Driving Licence?

Yes, potentially.

A current Belgian EU photocard driving licence falls within the Companies House driving-licence category.

Relevant models include:

• BEL-FO-05001;
• BEL-FO-04001;
• BEL-FO-04002; and
• BEL-FO-04003.

The individual licence must remain valid and pass the required checks.

Does Every Belgian Driving Licence Qualify?

No.

The physical licence must remain valid, belong to the applicant, contain a suitable photograph and pass the required checks.

Can I Use an Old Belgian Paper Driving Licence?

It requires individual review.

The standard Companies House driving-licence category refers to a photocard licence. Use a current photocard wherever possible.

Can I Use a Belgian Provisional Driving Licence?

Potentially.

The exact document must be a current eligible EU photocard provisional licence and pass the relevant checks.

Can I Use a Digital Belgian Driving Licence?

Do not rely on a digital version alone.

Prepare the original physical card.

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

Not in the GOV.UK One Login app.

The app accepts a UK photocard driving licence.

A Belgian EU licence may still qualify through an ACSP or at a participating Post Office where that route is offered.

Can I Use My Belgian eID at a Post Office?

Potentially.

The Post Office route can accept an EU national identity card where GOV.UK One Login offers the applicant that route.

The applicant must present the original physical card.

Can I Use a Belgian Emergency Passport?

Potentially, but it requires individual review.

An emergency passport may have limited validity or restricted use.

A current ordinary passport or eID will normally provide a clearer route.

Can I Use a Belgian Bank Statement?

Potentially.

A bank statement falls within Group B.

The statement must be genuine, complete, clear and capable of validation.

Can I Use a Belgian Utility Bill?

Potentially.

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

Can I Use a Belgian Mortgage Statement?

Potentially.

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

Can I Use a Belgian Insurance Policy?

Potentially.

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

Can I Use a Belgian Birth Certificate?

Potentially.

An official Belgian birth certificate falls within the Group B birth-certificate category.

Can I Use an Electronic Belgian Birth Certificate?

Potentially.

Provide the complete official electronic document rather than a screenshot.

The ACSP must be able to confirm the issuer, integrity, contents and connection to the applicant.

Can I Use a Belgian Marriage Certificate?

Potentially.

An official Belgian marriage certificate falls within Group B and may help connect different name forms.

Does Marriage Change a Belgian Citizen’s Legal Surname?

Normally no.

Under Belgian law, each spouse generally retains their pre-marriage legal surname.

A spouse’s surname may be used socially, professionally or under foreign law, but the Belgian passport normally remains in the legal birth or pre-marriage surname.

Can My Married Name Appear in My Belgian Passport?

Potentially as additional information.

A married name may be added to another page of the passport on request in appropriate circumstances.

It does not replace the legal surname on the personal-details page.

Can I Use a Foreign Birth or Marriage Certificate?

Potentially.

Provide the complete official certificate together with any relevant translation, authentication and Belgian linking evidence.

Do Belgian Documents Need an English Translation?

Some documents may need a translation.

Belgian passports, eID cards and driving licences use standard document fields and Latin script.

Birth certificates, marriage certificates, bank statements and utility bills may contain material information only in Dutch, French or German.

Provide both the original and an English translation where requested.

What If My Name Contains an Accent?

Send the complete document set for review.

UK records may omit or simplify Belgian accented letters.

The ACSP should compare the passport, eID, machine-readable zone, supporting documents and Companies House record.

What If My Surname Contains an Apostrophe?

Provide all relevant documents.

A UK system may remove the apostrophe, change spacing or join the surname elements.

The ACSP should confirm that the versions relate to the same person.

What If My Surname Contains De, Van or Another Particle?

Send documents showing the complete legal surname.

The ACSP should compare the spelling, spacing and capitalisation across the passport, eID and Companies House record.

What If Companies House Omits One of My Given Names?

Provide the passport or eID and supporting documents.

A shortened company record may still relate to the same person.

What If I Use a Married Name in the United Kingdom?

Provide:

• current Belgian passport;
• current eID;
• marriage certificate;
• foreign passport where relevant;
• passport page showing any additional married name;
• former identity documents where available; and
• documents showing the name used at Companies House.

What If I Have Belgian and Foreign Versions of My Name?

Provide all relevant passports and civil-status evidence.

The ACSP should connect the different versions and determine the current legal identity.

What If I Changed My Name Formally?

Provide the official name-change evidence and current identity documents.

The ACSP should be able to connect the former and current names.

Can I Verify My Identity While Living in Belgium?

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 and completes the required identity checks.

Must I Post My Original Belgian Passport or eID?

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 a Belgian Director or PSC?

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

• Belgian biometric passport plus current Belgian eID;
• Belgian passport plus current Belgian EU photocard driving licence;
• current Belgian eID plus current Belgian EU photocard driving licence;
• Belgian passport or eID plus an accepted Group B supporting document;
• Belgian passport plus valid UK photocard driving licence;
• Belgian passport plus eligible UK immigration document; or
• one eligible Belgian passport, biometric eID or EU driving licence under a suitable technology-led Option 1 process.

Belgian applicants have several strong document options because Belgium issues:

• biometric passports;
• EU biometric identity cards;
• EU photocard driving licences;
• official birth certificates; and
• official marriage certificates.

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

• expired or replaced eID;
• blocked eID or passport;
• unusually long eID validity;
• older identity-card model;
• passport or card that the chosen technology cannot read;
• only an itsme or MyGov.be account;
• only a National Register number or BIS number;
• only a generic National Register extract;
• Kids-ID;
• emergency passport;
• old paper driving licence;
• provisional driving licence;
• Belgian residence card issued to a non-national;
• Dutch, French and German versions of the records;
• accents missing from Companies House;
• apostrophe or surname-particle differences;
• several given names;
• legal surname and additional married name;
• Belgian and foreign versions of the same name;
• overseas birth or marriage;
• formal name change;
• 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.