Japanese nationals who act as directors or people with significant control, known as PSCs, of UK companies must complete Companies House identity verification.

The deadline depends on the person’s role and when Companies House recorded that role.

After a successful identity check, Companies House issues an 11-character personal code. The code belongs to the individual rather than to one company.

Therefore, the same personal code can be used for every UK company where the person acts as a director or PSC. However, it must be connected separately to each appointment and role.

Quick Answer for Japanese Directors and PSCs

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

Japan also issues:

• the My Number Card, also called the Individual Number Card;
• a conventional physical driving licence;
• the Myna driver’s licence, which stores driving information on a My Number Card;
• official family-register documents known as koseki;
• municipal birth and marriage records; and
• digital government identity services through Mynaportal.

However, PRADO’s current Japan register lists Japanese passports, an emergency passport and a document for return to Japan. It does not currently list the Japanese My Number Card or Japanese driving licence. Therefore, neither document should automatically replace the formal Companies House document combination.

For a person-led remote check through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider, or ACSP, the applicant normally needs either:

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

The most practical combinations for Japanese directors and PSCs are often:

• Japanese passport and bank statement;
• Japanese passport and utility bill;
• Japanese passport and mortgage statement;
• Japanese passport and insurance policy;
• Japanese passport and official birth certificate;
• Japanese passport and official marriage certificate;
• Japanese passport and UK photocard driving licence;
• Japanese passport and eligible UK immigration document;
• Japanese passport and another recognised passport where the person lawfully holds more than one nationality; or
• one Japanese biometric passport through a suitable technology-led Option 1 process.

Direct answer: The clearest person-led route will usually use a Japanese passport together with an accepted Group B document.

A My Number Card, Japanese driving licence, Myna driver’s licence or koseki may support the wider review. However, the formal evidence must still meet the published Companies House document categories.

Important Difference for Japanese Applicants

Japanese applicants often have several strong domestic identity documents. Nevertheless, Companies House does not simply accept every document that works as official identification in Japan.

The current position is:

• a Japanese passport clearly falls within Group A;
• the passport may also work under Option 1;
• the My Number Card is not currently listed on PRADO;
• a Japanese driving licence is not currently listed on PRADO;
• Japan is outside the Option 1 country list for biometric identity cards;
• Japan is outside the Option 1 country list for photocard driving licences; and
• a koseki is valuable official evidence but is not expressly named in the Companies House Group B list.

As a result, the Japanese passport normally forms the foundation of the verification process.

Japanese Biometric Passports

The Japanese ordinary passport is called a 旅券 or パスポート.

Japan has issued electronic passports containing an IC chip since 2006. In March 2025, Japan introduced a new passport generation with a polycarbonate personal-details page and enhanced anti-counterfeiting features.

A current Japanese passport normally provides the strongest Group A evidence for a Japanese director or PSC.

Current Ten-Year Japanese Passport

The current ten-year ordinary passport model is:

JPN-AO-09001

PRADO records that the document:

• is an ordinary passport issued to Japanese nationals;
• was introduced in March 2025;
• contains 54 pages;
• has maximum validity of ten years;
• has a red cover;
• uses an integrated personal-details card;
• contains a black-and-white primary photograph;
• contains a secondary photograph;
• includes a variable laser image;
• contains ultraviolet security features; and
• can display the holder’s image and date of birth when viewed at different angles.

A ten-year Japanese passport is available to an applicant aged 18 or over.

Current Five-Year Japanese Passport

The current five-year ordinary passport model is:

JPN-AO-09002

PRADO records that the document:

• is issued to Japanese nationals;
• was introduced in March 2025;
• contains 38 pages;
• has maximum validity of five years;
• has a blue cover;
• uses an integrated personal-details card;
• contains primary and secondary facial images;
• includes a variable laser image;
• contains ultraviolet security features; and
• contains modern optical security features.

A person under 18 normally receives a five-year passport.

An adult may also choose a five-year passport instead of a ten-year passport.

The 2025 Passport

Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs describes the new generation as the 2025 Passport.

The main changes include:

• a polycarbonate personal-details page;
• laser-engraved personal information;
• several facial images created using different methods;
• a small image that changes to the date of birth when tilted;
• improved resistance to alteration and counterfeiting;
• centralised personalisation; and
• continued use of designs from Hokusai’s Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji.

Japan began producing and issuing the new generation in March 2025.

Previous Japanese Passport Models

PRADO also lists earlier ordinary Japanese passport models, including:

• JPN-AO-02004;
• JPN-AO-02003;
• JPN-AO-02002; and
• JPN-AO-02001.

Some individual passports under the previous generation may remain valid until their printed expiry dates.

Therefore, an older model should not be rejected merely because a newer passport design now exists.

The ACSP must instead check:

• the precise passport model;
• issue date;
• expiry date;
• document condition;
• whether another passport has replaced it;
• whether it was reported lost or stolen;
• whether it has cancellation marks;
• whether the photograph remains suitable; and
• whether the passport details match the applicant’s current identity.

Japanese Passports Issued Through the London Embassy

Japanese nationals living in the United Kingdom can apply for passport services through the Embassy of Japan in London.

Applications and collections require appointments. The Embassy currently advises that passport processing normally takes about one month, although applications made after the July 2026 fee changes may take longer.

A passport obtained through the London Embassy remains a standard Japanese passport.

It is not a lower-status document merely because the holder applied outside Japan.

The verifier should check:

• exact passport model;
• passport number;
• issue date;
• expiry date;
• biometric-passport symbol;
• IC chip functionality;
• personal-details page;
• machine-readable zone;
• photograph;
• physical condition;
• observations;
• bracketed alternative names where shown; and
• whether a newer passport has replaced it.

Using a Japanese Passport With GOV.UK One Login

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

The process generally requires the applicant to:

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

The applicant must use the original physical passport.

The app does not accept:

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

What If the Passport Chip Cannot Be Read?

A failed chip scan does not automatically mean that the passport is false or legally invalid.

First, the applicant may try to:

• remove the phone case;
• confirm that near-field communication is active;
• move the phone slowly across the passport cover;
• place the phone over a different part of the passport;
• retry the scan; or
• use another compatible phone.

Where the app still cannot read the passport, an ACSP route may remain available.

The passport may work:

• through another identity-document validation platform; or
• through a person-led Option 2 check.

Expired Japanese Passports

An expired Japanese passport may still work in limited ACSP cases.

Technology-Led Option 1

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

Person-Led Option 2

A passport may be up to 18 months expired.

However, the passport must not have been:

• cancelled;
• replaced;
• reported lost or stolen;
• cut or perforated;
• physically invalidated;
• seriously damaged; or
• altered.

A current passport will normally provide a simpler route.

Cancelled and Replaced Japanese Passports

Do not use a Japanese passport after another passport has replaced it.

This applies even where the previous passport:

• has not reached its printed expiry date;
• remains physically intact;
• still contains a readable chip;
• contains valid visas;
• has been returned to the holder; or
• shows a former name that remains in use professionally.

A cancelled passport may help connect a former name or earlier passport number.

However, it cannot provide the current formal identity evidence.

Lost and Stolen Japanese Passports

A passport reported lost or stolen should not be used.

This remains the case even if the holder later recovers it.

The passport may already have been:

• cancelled;
• entered into lost-document databases;
• replaced;
• recorded as invalid; or
• reported to international authorities.

Use the current replacement passport instead.

Japanese Emergency Passports and Return Documents

PRADO lists the Japanese emergency passport under:

JPN-AP-02001

It also lists a separate document for return to Japan under:

JPN-EP-01001

The return document is categorised as an entry paper rather than an ordinary passport.

Emergency Passport

A current Japanese emergency passport may potentially provide passport evidence.

However, the ACSP must review:

• exact document type;
• reason for issue;
• present validity;
• photograph;
• machine-readable features;
• electronic features;
• travel restrictions;
• whether an ordinary passport later replaced it; and
• whether the issuing authority has cancelled it.

Document for Return to Japan

A document issued only to allow the holder to return to Japan should not be treated as the routine passport for Companies House verification.

It may have:

• a single-journey purpose;
• short validity;
• restricted territorial use;
• no biometric chip;
• limited security features; or
• no continuing validity after the return journey.

A current ordinary Japanese passport will normally provide the clearest route.

Japanese My Number Card

The Japanese My Number Card is officially called the Individual Number Card.

In Japanese, it is commonly called the マイナンバーカード.

The card:

• is a plastic photographic card;
• contains an IC chip;
• displays the holder’s name;
• displays the registered address;
• displays the date of birth;
• displays sex;
• contains the holder’s photograph;
• displays the 12-digit My Number on the reverse; and
• contains electronic certificates for identification and electronic signatures.

Within Japan, the card can be used for identity checks and many public and private services.

However, domestic acceptance does not automatically make the card a Companies House Group A document.

Does the My Number Card Prove Japanese Nationality?

Not necessarily.

My Number Cards are available to people registered as residents in Japan, including qualifying foreign residents.

Therefore, possession of a My Number Card does not by itself prove that the holder is a Japanese citizen.

A Japanese passport provides much clearer evidence of Japanese nationality.

Can the My Number Card Provide Group A Evidence?

Do not rely on the My Number Card as one of the two formal documents under the current person-led route.

Companies House permits another photographic identity document listed on PRADO.

However, PRADO’s current Japan register does not list the My Number Card or another Japanese national identity-card category.

The card may still provide useful supplementary evidence.

How the My Number Card Can Support the Review

The card may help confirm:

• current registered name;
• former surname where officially recorded;
• residential address;
• date of birth;
• photograph;
• sex;
• 12-digit My Number;
• control of an electronic certificate;
• consistency with a Japanese passport;
• consistency with a certificate of residence; or
• consistency with Mynaportal records.

Applicants should send clear images of both sides only where the verifier specifically requests them.

The My Number shown on the reverse is highly sensitive. It should not be collected or shared unless it is genuinely required.

For a Companies House check, the ACSP normally needs to establish identity rather than collect the My Number itself.

Why the My Number Card Does Not Qualify Under Option 1

Option 1 accepts biometric identity cards issued by:

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

Japan is not included.

Therefore, the My Number Card does not qualify through this category merely because it:

• contains an IC chip;
• contains a photograph;
• supports electronic certificates;
• can authenticate online transactions;
• is used for Japanese government services;
• can be used as a health-insurance credential; or
• is connected with biometric and municipal records.

A Japanese national can instead use a qualifying biometric or machine-readable passport under Option 1.

My Number Card Validity

The validity of the physical My Number Card depends on the holder’s age when the card is issued.

The card is normally valid:

• until the tenth birthday after issue where the holder was aged 18 or over; or
• until the fifth birthday after issue where the holder was under 18.

The electronic certificates stored on the card are normally valid until the fifth birthday after issue, regardless of age.

Therefore, the physical card and its electronic certificates may have different expiry dates.

The ACSP should check:

• the card’s printed expiry date;
• electronic-certificate status where relevant;
• whether the card was renewed;
• whether it was replaced;
• whether the photograph remains suitable;
• whether the address is current; and
• whether the card still matches the applicant’s legal name.

My Number Cards for Japanese Nationals Living Abroad

Since 27 May 2024, eligible Japanese nationals have been able to continue using a My Number Card after moving overseas, provided the required procedures are completed.

Japanese nationals abroad may also be able to apply for and collect an overseas-use My Number Card through the relevant procedures.

An overseas-use My Number Card may therefore belong to a Japanese director living in the United Kingdom.

Even so, it does not replace the formal Companies House document categories.

Lost or Replaced My Number Cards

A lost card should be suspended promptly.

The holder can later apply for reissue. Where a suspended card is found before replacement, municipal procedures may allow the functions to be reactivated.

However, an old card should not be used after a replacement has been issued.

Do not rely on a card that:

• was cancelled;
• has been replaced;
• is seriously damaged;
• contains an unreadable photograph;
• has a damaged chip;
• no longer shows the current name;
• no longer shows the current address; or
• cannot be connected to the applicant’s present identity.

My Number Card on a Smartphone

Japan allows certain My Number Card electronic-certificate functions to be installed on supported smartphones.

These services can help users access:

• Mynaportal;
• online government services;
• electronic tax services;
• digital certificates;
• health-insurance functions; and
• other connected services.

However, a smartphone certificate or digital My Number function does not replace the physical card for the Companies House document combination.

Do not rely only on:

• smartphone My Number screen;
• Mynaportal login;
• screenshot;
• QR code;
• electronic-certificate result;
• government-service profile; or
• digital-wallet image.

These items may support the review, but they are not the formal Group A or Group B evidence.

My Number and the Companies House Personal Code

The Japanese My Number contains 12 digits.

The Companies House personal code contains 11 characters.

They are entirely different identifiers.

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

• Japanese My Number;
• My Number Card document details;
• Japanese passport number;
• Japanese driving-licence number;
• Myna driver’s-licence number;
• resident-register code;
• UK National Insurance number;
• Japanese tax number;
• company authentication code; or
• Mynaportal login information.

Japanese Driving Licences

Japan issues conventional physical driving licences.

These cards can provide reliable domestic evidence of:

• photograph;
• name;
• date of birth;
• address;
• driving-licence number;
• vehicle categories;
• restrictions; and
• current driving entitlement.

However, PRADO does not currently list a Japanese driving licence.

Therefore:

Do not rely on a Japanese driving licence as the formal second Group A document under the current published Companies House route.

Japan is also outside the Option 1 category for UK and EU photocard driving licences.

How a Japanese Driving Licence Can Support the Review

An ACSP may still examine the physical licence as additional evidence of:

• current photograph;
• registered Japanese address;
• name in Japanese;
• date of birth;
• current government-issued status;
• consistency with the passport;
• consistency with the My Number Card; or
• consistency with other Japanese records.

The applicant should provide clear images of the front and reverse where requested.

They must also show the original card during the video call if the ACSP relies on it as supplementary evidence.

Expired or Replaced Japanese Driving Licences

Do not rely on a licence that:

• has expired;
• has been replaced;
• was reported lost;
• has been cancelled;
• has been suspended;
• has been revoked;
• is seriously damaged;
• no longer reflects the current name; or
• cannot be matched to the holder.

The verifier should check the expiry date shown on the individual licence rather than assuming a standard period applies in every case.

Myna Driver’s Licence

Japan introduced nationwide integration of the My Number Card and driving licence on 24 March 2025.

A person can choose to hold:

• only a My Number Card containing driving-licence information;
• both a Myna driver’s licence and a conventional driving licence; or
• only a conventional driving licence.

The driving information stored on the My Number Card includes:

• Myna driver’s-licence number;
• licence date;
• expiry date;
• licence categories;
• conditions; and
• facial image.

This information is stored on the IC chip and does not appear on the physical face of the My Number Card.

Can the Myna Driver’s Licence Provide Group A Evidence?

Do not rely on the Myna driver’s licence as the formal second Group A document.

The Companies House verifier would need a document that falls within a published Group A category.

The My Number Card itself is not currently listed on PRADO. In addition, the driving information is not visible on the card’s surface and requires an official reader or application.

Therefore, the Myna driver’s licence is better treated as supplementary evidence.

Showing Myna Driving Information

Where relevant, the applicant may be asked to:

• show the physical My Number Card;
• use the official Myna driver’s-licence reading application;
• display the licence information live;
• show the passport;
• show another accepted document; and
• explain whether they also hold a conventional driving licence.

A screenshot or printed screen should not replace the live official record.

Japanese Family Register

Japan’s family register is called a koseki.

Common terms include:

• koseki;
• koseki tohon;
• koseki shohon;
• family register;
• certified copy of the family register; and
• extract from the family register.

Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs describes the koseki as an official document that records and certifies the identity and family relationships of Japanese nationals.

The koseki may record matters such as:

• formal legal name;
• date of birth;
• parent-child relationships;
• marriage;
• divorce;
• adoption;
• death;
• former surname;
• family relationships; and
• changes to civil status.

Is a Koseki a Group B Document?

Do not assume that every koseki automatically qualifies as Group B.

Companies House expressly lists:

• birth or adoption certificate; and
• marriage or civil partnership certificate.

It does not separately list a foreign family-register extract.

A koseki may provide valuable supporting or linking evidence. However, where the applicant needs Group B evidence, a specific official birth or marriage certificate will usually provide the clearer route.

When a Koseki Is Particularly Useful

A koseki may help where:

• the passport uses a Romanised name;
• the civil record uses kanji and kana;
• the applicant changed surname after marriage;
• a former surname appears in passport brackets;
• the applicant has more than one nationality;
• the passport and foreign records use different names;
• an overseas birth or marriage was registered in Japan;
• the applicant needs to establish parentage;
• an adoption affected the legal name; or
• the applicant needs to connect old and new identity documents.

Japanese Birth Certificates

An official Japanese birth certificate or official certificate based on the Japanese birth registration may provide Group B evidence.

Depending on the applicant’s circumstances, suitable evidence may include:

• municipal birth certificate;
• certificate of acceptance of the birth notification;
• official consular birth certificate;
• foreign birth certificate for a person born abroad;
• koseki showing the registered birth; or
• another official civil-register certificate that clearly proves the birth.

Japan’s own official guidance treats birth certificates, marriage certificates and family-register certificates as separate forms of official relationship evidence.

What the Birth Evidence Should Show

The document should allow the verifier to identify:

• applicant’s complete registered name;
• date of birth;
• place of birth;
• parents’ names where shown;
• issuing authority;
• date of issue;
• registration information;
• later corrections; and
• connection to the current passport.

Provide the complete official document rather than:

• hospital notification;
• maternity handbook entry;
• baptism record used alone;
• cropped photograph;
• municipal application receipt;
• screenshot from Mynaportal;
• translation without the original; or
• informal family document.

Japanese Nationals Born Abroad

A Japanese national born outside Japan may have:

• foreign birth certificate;
• Japanese report of birth;
• koseki registration;
• Japanese passport;
• foreign passport;
• certificate of Japanese nationality; or
• parents’ Japanese identity documents.

The ACSP may need to connect:

• foreign birth record;
• Japanese family-register entry;
• Japanese nationality;
• Japanese and foreign name spellings;
• place of birth; and
• current passport information.

Japanese Marriage Certificates

An official Japanese marriage certificate may provide Group B evidence.

Depending on the case, the applicant may hold:

• certificate of acceptance of marriage notification;
• municipal marriage certificate;
• consular marriage certificate;
• koseki showing the registered marriage;
• foreign marriage certificate; or
• another official record proving the marriage.

Marriage Abroad

A Japanese national married abroad may have:

• foreign marriage certificate;
• Japanese report of marriage;
• updated koseki;
• current Japanese passport;
• former Japanese passport;
• foreign passport;
• former-surname evidence; or
• official translation.

An official foreign marriage certificate may itself provide Group B evidence.

However, the ACSP may ask for Japanese linking evidence where:

• the Japanese passport remains in another name;
• the foreign certificate uses a spouse’s surname;
• the koseki has not yet been updated;
• a former surname appears in brackets;
• Companies House records an earlier name; or
• the applicant uses different names in Japan and the United Kingdom.

English Translations

Japanese passports contain internationally standardised Latin-script identity fields.

However, other Japanese documents may contain important information only in Japanese.

This can include:

• My Number Card;
• driving licence;
• koseki;
• certificate of residence;
• birth certificate;
• marriage certificate;
• bank statement;
• utility bill;
• mortgage statement;
• insurance policy; or
• civil-status record.

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

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

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

Who Must Complete Companies House Verification?

The requirement applies to Japanese 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;
• forming UK companies as directors or PSCs; or
• applying to become Companies House authorised agents.

Identity verification became a legal requirement on 18 November 2025.

However, that date began a phased transition rather than creating one identical deadline for every person.

Existing Directors

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

Where the person is a director of several companies, the code must be connected separately to each appointment.

New Directors

A new director provides the code during the appointment process.

Similarly, a proposed director of a newly formed company must provide the personal code during incorporation.

PSCs

PSCs have separate 14-day compliance periods.

The correct period depends on:

• whether the PSC is also a director;
• when Companies House first recorded the PSC; and
• the company’s confirmation statement date.

Verification Routes for Japanese Nationals

Japanese applicants can use one of two main routes.

GOV.UK One Login

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

Depending on the person’s documents and circumstances, the service may ask them to:

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

Verification Through an ACSP

An ACSP can verify the person:

• remotely;
• by video call;
• in person; or
• through supported identity technology.

ACSPs can include regulated solicitors, accountants and company service providers.

A Japanese director does not need to travel to the United Kingdom solely for an ACSP video identity check.

Can You Use a My Number Card in GOV.UK One Login?

No published GOV.UK One Login app route currently lists the Japanese My Number Card as an accepted app document.

The app route normally accepts documents such as:

• UK passport;
• non-UK biometric passport;
• UK photocard driving licence;
• specified UK biometric immigration documents; or
• UK Frontier Worker permit.

The My Number Card does not become an accepted app document merely because it contains a chip and electronic certificates.

Can You Use a Japanese Driving Licence in the App?

No.

The GOV.UK One Login app accepts a UK photocard driving licence rather than a Japanese driving licence.

A Japanese licence should therefore not be used as the app document.

Answering Security Questions

Some Japanese nationals living in the United Kingdom may receive the option to answer security questions online.

The service may use information connected with:

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

A Japanese director living outside the UK or with limited UK financial history may find this route less practical.

Name differences can also cause automatic matching problems.

For example, records may differ because of:

• Japanese and Western name order;
• kanji and Latin-script names;
• different Romanisation;
• a long vowel written in different ways;
• a former surname in brackets;
• several given names under another nationality;
• an omitted middle or alternative name;
• a married surname;
• an apostrophe or hyphen; or
• a shortened professional name.

Post Office Verification

GOV.UK One Login may offer some applicants a Post Office route.

The applicant must first:

1. begin the Companies House service online;
2. enter the requested identity 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 document specified in the instructions.

A Japanese passport will normally provide the clearest Post Office document route.

Do not assume that the Post Office will accept:

• My Number Card;
• smartphone My Number function;
• Japanese driving licence;
• Myna driver’s licence;
• koseki;
• residence certificate;
• digital government profile; or
• photograph of a passport.

The applicant must follow the exact instructions generated for their individual case.

How Many Documents Are Required?

Option 1: Technology-Led Check

One photographic document may be enough where suitable identity technology can validate it.

Eligible document categories include:

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

For a Japanese national, the strongest Option 1 document is usually:

• Japanese biometric passport.

Other possible Option 1 documents include:

• UK photocard driving licence;
• eligible UK immigration document; or
• eVisa.

A Japanese My Number Card and Japanese driving licence do not fall within the current Option 1 country categories.

Option 2: Person-Led Check

A trained person can inspect the original documents remotely or in person.

The applicant must provide either:

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

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

A passport may be up to 18 months expired where it has not been cancelled or replaced.

Other documents normally need to remain current.

Group A Documents for Japanese Nationals

Japanese Biometric Passport

A current Japanese biometric passport normally provides the strongest Group A evidence.

Relevant current models include:

• JPN-AO-09001, ten-year red passport; and
• JPN-AO-09002, five-year blue passport.

Earlier passport models may remain usable where the individual passport remains valid and has not been cancelled or replaced.

Another Recognised Passport

A Japanese national may hold another passport in limited multiple-nationality circumstances.

However, Japan requires people with multiple nationality to make a nationality choice within the applicable legal framework. Therefore, a second passport should not be presented as a routine document without reviewing the person’s current nationality position.

Where two passports are presented, the ACSP must confirm:

• whether both remain legally valid;
• whether the holder is still a Japanese national;
• why the names differ;
• whether either passport has been cancelled;
• whether a nationality-selection process is relevant; and
• whether the two documents belong to the same person.

UK Photocard Driving Licence

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

A Japanese passport and UK driving licence can provide two strong photographic identity documents.

Eligible UK Immigration Document

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

Examples may include:

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

Japanese Documents That Should Not Replace Formal Evidence

The following documents may provide useful supporting information. However, they should not replace accepted Group A or Group B evidence unless a clear published basis applies:

• My Number Card;
• overseas-use My Number Card;
• smartphone My Number Card function;
• physical Japanese driving licence;
• Myna driver’s licence;
• Mynaportal profile;
• 12-digit My Number;
• residence certificate known as juminhyo;
• resident-register code;
• koseki used without confirming its function;
• seal-registration certificate;
• health-insurance credential;
• pension document;
• tax certificate;
• residence-tax certificate;
• voter certificate;
• student card;
• employee card;
• professional membership card;
• bank payment card; or
• screenshot of a government service.

Japanese Residence Card

A Japanese residence card is issued to qualifying foreign nationals living in Japan.

It does not prove Japanese nationality.

A Japanese citizen should not describe a residence card as a Japanese national identity card.

Where a non-Japanese applicant holds a Japanese residence card, the ACSP must record the person’s actual nationality and immigration status accurately.

Japanese Certificate of Residence

The Japanese certificate of residence is commonly called a juminhyo.

It may show information including:

• current registered address;
• name;
• date of birth;
• sex;
• household relationships;
• former surname where recorded;
• nationality details for a foreign resident; or
• date of residence registration.

However, Companies House does not expressly list a foreign certificate of residence in Group B.

Therefore, a juminhyo should normally provide supplementary address or linking evidence rather than replace a listed bank statement, utility bill, mortgage statement or insurance policy.

Where a juminhyo is supplied, the My Number and resident-register code should normally be omitted unless genuinely required.

Group B Supporting Documents

Where the applicant has only one suitable Group A photographic document, they can provide one Group B document.

Accepted Group B categories include:

• birth certificate;
• adoption certificate;
• marriage certificate;
• 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 social-housing rental agreement.

A Japanese document must be genuine, complete, clear and capable of validation.

Japanese Bank Statements

A Japanese bank statement may provide Group B evidence.

The statement should:

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

A complete official PDF or statement issued by the bank will normally provide stronger evidence than:

• banking-app screenshot;
• cropped transaction list;
• photograph of a bankbook;
• cash-card image;
• transfer receipt;
• balance shown on a mobile screen; or
• copied account information.

Japanese Bankbooks

A Japanese bankbook is commonly called a tsūchō.

It may contain useful account information and transaction history.

However, the ACSP must decide whether the material provided amounts to a bank statement for Companies House purposes.

A photograph of one bankbook page may not show:

• account holder’s complete name;
• issuing bank;
• current address;
• recent statement date;
• complete activity; or
• authenticity information.

Where possible, obtain a complete official statement.

Name Differences on Bank Statements

A Japanese bank statement may:

• show the name in katakana;
• show kanji only;
• use Latin letters;
• place the family name first;
• omit a former surname;
• omit a bracketed passport name;
• use a professional surname;
• use initials;
• remove punctuation; or
• use a different Romanisation.

These differences do not automatically make the statement unacceptable.

However, the ACSP must connect the statement to the passport and other records.

Japanese Utility Bills

A Japanese 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;
• fixed-line telephone bill; or
• household internet bill.

The verifier must be able to identify:

• service provider;
• account holder;
• service address;
• billing date;
• account information; and
• connection to the applicant.

A payment receipt, convenience-store payment slip or banking entry does not necessarily amount to the complete utility bill.

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

Japanese Mortgage Statements

A Japanese 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.

The following documents are not automatically the same as a mortgage statement:

• property-register extract;
• purchase contract;
• title information;
• fixed-asset tax notice;
• loan approval letter;
• repayment simulation; or
• property-management statement.

These records may provide additional evidence, but the Group B mortgage category should normally use an actual mortgage statement.

Japanese Insurance Policies

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

Examples may include:

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

A premium invoice, quotation, payment receipt, renewal reminder or insurance card may not amount to the complete policy.

Recommended Document Combinations

Japanese Passport and Bank Statement

This combination provides:

• one Group A document; and
• one Group B document.

It often provides the clearest route where the applicant:

• has no UK driving licence;
• has only a My Number Card as another photographic document;
• does not lawfully hold a second passport;
• wants to show genuine financial activity;
• needs to establish a Japanese or UK address; or
• has a name difference across records.

Japanese Passport and Utility Bill

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

Japanese Passport and Mortgage Statement

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

Japanese Passport and Insurance Policy

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

Japanese Passport and Birth Certificate

An official Japanese or foreign birth certificate may provide Group B evidence.

This combination can help where:

• Companies House reverses the name order;
• the passport uses Roman letters while the birth record uses kanji;
• the applicant uses another Romanisation;
• the place or date of birth needs clarification;
• the applicant was born abroad;
• the applicant has more than one nationality;
• the applicant changed their name; or
• the verifier needs stronger civil-registration evidence.

Japanese Passport and Marriage Certificate

An official Japanese or foreign marriage certificate may provide Group B evidence.

It can help connect:

• birth and married surnames;
• a former surname shown in brackets;
• a professional surname;
• Japanese and foreign identity documents;
• the passport and koseki;
• a foreign spouse’s surname; or
• an earlier Companies House appointment.

Japanese Passport and UK Photocard Driving Licence

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

Japanese Passport and UK Immigration Document

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

An eVisa may qualify through the technology-led route.

Japanese Passport and Second Foreign Passport

This may provide two Group A documents where the applicant lawfully holds both passports.

However, the ACSP must review the person’s nationality status and connect any differences in:

• formal surname;
• alternative surname;
• given name;
• name order;
• Romanisation;
• place of birth;
• nationality; or
• passport annotations.

Japanese Names and Name Structure

Japanese identity records require careful name checks.

Names may appear in:

• kanji;
• hiragana;
• katakana;
• Latin letters;
• passport Romanisation;
• another nationality’s spelling; or
• an English-language business format.

As a result, the same person’s name may look different across several documents.

Family Name and Given Name Order

Traditional Japanese records commonly place the family name before the given name.

For example:

Yamada Hanako

may be displayed in an English or UK system as:

Hanako Yamada

A change in order does not automatically indicate a different person.

The ACSP should compare:

• labelled passport fields;
• machine-readable zone;
• koseki;
• My Number Card;
• birth certificate;
• marriage certificate;
• bank statement; and
• Companies House record.

Kanji, Kana and Roman Letters

A Japanese person’s legal name may be recorded in kanji.

The pronunciation may also appear in kana.

The passport then shows the name in Roman letters.

Different systems may therefore contain:

• kanji form;
• hiragana reading;
• katakana reading;
• Hepburn-style spelling;
• another approved passport spelling; or
• a foreign-language version.

The Roman spelling in the current passport normally provides the clearest starting point for the Companies House check.

Different Romanisations

The same Japanese name can appear in more than one Latin spelling.

For example, records may show differences such as:

• Saito and Saitoh;
• Ito and Itoh;
• Ono and Ohno;
• Ota and Ohta;
• Sho and Shou;
• Yu and Yuu; or
• Junichiro and Junichirō.

These examples do not prove automatically that two records belong to the same person.

The verifier must compare the complete identity evidence.

Long Vowels

Japanese long vowels can create common spelling differences.

A long sound may be represented using:

• an additional vowel;
• the letter H;
• a macron;
• a simplified spelling; or
• another officially accepted passport form.

A UK database may also remove macrons and other marks.

Therefore, the ACSP should not decide identity based only on one vowel difference.

Apostrophes, Hyphens and Spacing

Japanese Romanised names may contain:

• apostrophes;
• hyphens;
• spaces;
• brackets;
• several given-name elements; or
• alternative names.

A UK system may:

• remove an apostrophe;
• remove a hyphen;
• join two elements;
• split one element;
• remove brackets; or
• omit an alternative name.

The complete passport and supporting documents should be compared.

Former and Alternative Names in Japanese Passports

The formal surname and given name in a Japanese passport are based on the koseki.

However, a former surname, alternative surname or alternative given name may appear in brackets where the Japanese authority has approved it.

A major point is that the bracketed name appears only in the visual inspection zone.

It does not appear in:

• the machine-readable zone; or
• the passport’s IC chip.

This can create an apparent mismatch.

For example:

• the visible passport page may show the former surname in brackets;
• the MRZ may show only the formal current surname;
• the chip may show only the formal current surname;
• a UK bank may use the former surname;
• Companies House may use the bracketed surname; or
• another passport may use the alternative surname.

The ACSP must compare both the visible passport page and the electronic or machine-readable information.

Former Surname on the My Number Card

A former surname may also appear on a My Number Card where it has first been recorded in the person’s certificate of residence.

Therefore, the card may help connect:

• current surname;
• former surname;
• Japanese residential record;
• passport bracketed name; and
• Companies House record.

The card remains supplementary evidence rather than automatic Group A evidence.

Marriage and Japanese Surnames

Marriage can create differences between the koseki, passport, bank records and Companies House.

A Japanese national may:

• adopt the spouse’s surname;
• retain an earlier surname professionally;
• use a former surname in business;
• have the former surname added in brackets to the passport;
• use another surname under foreign law;
• hold a foreign passport with a different name; or
• update Japanese records before UK records.

Useful evidence may include:

• current passport;
• former passport;
• koseki;
• marriage certificate;
• My Number Card showing the former surname;
• foreign passport where relevant;
• current bank records; and
• documents showing the name used at Companies House.

No Standard Middle-Name Structure

Japanese civil naming does not generally use a British-style middle-name structure.

However, a person may still have:

• several given names under another nationality;
• an alternative given name;
• a foreign-parent name;
• a religious name;
• a professional name; or
• a bracketed passport name.

A UK form may incorrectly:

• place part of the given name in the middle-name field;
• treat the family name as a given name;
• reverse the name order;
• omit an additional given name; or
• record an alternative name as a middle name.

The ACSP should use the labelled passport fields and koseki-based evidence.

Professional and Business Names

A Japanese person may use a professional or business name that differs from the formal koseki name.

This may occur in:

• academic work;
• publishing;
• entertainment;
• business correspondence;
• banking;
• email addresses;
• professional registrations; or
• overseas employment.

A professional name does not automatically become the legal identity.

Where Companies House uses the professional name, the applicant should provide documents linking it to the formal passport identity.

Japanese Honorifics

Honorifics such as:

• san;
• sama;
• sensei;
• kun; or
• chan

do not form part of the legal name.

They should not be entered as a given name, surname or former name for Companies House identity verification.

Multiple Nationality

A Japanese national may hold more than one nationality in limited circumstances.

However, Japanese law requires people with multiple nationality to choose a nationality within the applicable legal period.

In addition, voluntarily acquiring another nationality may affect Japanese nationality status.

Therefore, the ACSP should not assume that every second passport presented by a Japanese applicant remains legally valid alongside Japanese nationality.

Where a second passport is presented, review:

• how each nationality was acquired;
• current Japanese nationality status;
• current validity of both passports;
• nationality-selection obligations;
• differences in names;
• differences in places of birth; and
• whether either document has been cancelled.

Check the Date of Birth

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

Problems may arise where:

• someone made an error during incorporation;
• Companies House holds the wrong date;
• a Japanese record uses another date format;
• the passport and company record differ;
• a civil record contains a correction;
• the ACSP submits incorrect details; or
• the applicant enters the wrong personal code.

Use:

• passport;
• birth certificate;
• koseki;
• My Number Card as supplementary evidence; and
• other official civil records.

Where the Companies House date of birth is wrong, correct the register before trying to connect the personal code.

Japanese Addresses and Address History

The ACSP must collect:

• the applicant’s current home address; and
• address history for the previous 12 months.

A Japanese applicant’s documents may show different addresses because:

• the passport does not show a residential address;
• the My Number Card shows an earlier Japanese address;
• the applicant now lives outside Japan;
• the bank uses a correspondence address;
• the utility bill is in another household member’s name;
• the person recently moved;
• the address is written in Japanese order;
• a building name is omitted;
• the postal code is formatted differently; or
• the applicant has both Japanese and UK homes.

The actual current residential address must be provided.

Where the My Number Card or juminhyo shows an older address, use a current accepted Group B document.

Japanese Address Order

Japanese addresses are often written from the larger area to the smaller area.

An English translation may reverse the order.

For example, one record may show:

• prefecture;
• city or ward;
• district;
• block;
• building;
• room number.

Another record may start with the room or building number.

This difference does not automatically create an address mismatch.

However, the ACSP must be satisfied that both versions describe the same residence.

Same-Day Remote Verification

Ginkgo Advisory is registered with Companies House as an ACSP.

Our solicitor-led service can arrange remote Companies House identity verification by video call for Japanese directors and PSCs.

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

• the documents are reviewed and approved in advance;
• the applicant provides all required information;
• the document combination meets the Companies House standard;
• the applicant has the original documents;
• the verifier can validate them;
• the applicant appears clearly on camera;
• the Companies House information matches; and
• no unresolved identity or compliance concern remains.

Strong person-led combinations include:

• Japanese passport and bank statement;
• Japanese passport and utility bill;
• Japanese passport and mortgage statement;
• Japanese passport and insurance policy;
• Japanese passport and official birth certificate;
• Japanese passport and official marriage certificate;
• Japanese passport and UK photocard driving licence;
• Japanese passport and eligible UK immigration document; or
• Japanese passport and another legally valid recognised passport.

The My Number Card, Japanese driving licence, Myna driver’s licence and koseki may support the review. However, they should not replace the accepted formal combination unless a clear Companies House category applies.

Remote Verification Process

Step 1: Send the Documents

For a passport, provide:

• complete personal-details page;
• complete machine-readable zone;
• observations pages;
• pages showing alternative or former names;
• name-amendment information; and
• relevant endorsements.

Where requested, send the front and reverse of:

• My Number Card;
• physical Japanese driving licence; or
• another supplementary photographic document.

For a Group B document, send the complete file rather than a cropped image.

Applicants must also provide:

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

Step 2: Confirm the Document Combination

The review may cover:

• passport model;
• red ten-year or blue five-year passport;
• passport chip;
• passport expiry date;
• whether the passport was cancelled or replaced;
• older passport model;
• My Number Card;
• physical-card expiry;
• electronic-certificate expiry;
• overseas-use card;
• former surname on the My Number Card;
• Japanese driving licence;
• Myna driver’s licence;
• Group B evidence;
• kanji, kana and Romanised names;
• Japanese and Western name order;
• bracketed former or alternative names;
• MRZ and chip differences;
• married and former surnames;
• dual-nationality documents;
• current address; and
• Companies House information.

Where the documents do not meet the standard, a stronger combination will be identified before the video call.

Step 3: Attend the Video Call

During the call, the applicant must:

• appear clearly on camera;
• show the original documents;
• move or tilt them when requested;
• display visible security features;
• confirm personal details;
• complete the facial comparison; and
• answer relevant identity questions.

The verifier must be satisfied that:

• the applicant is a real person;
• the documents appear genuine;
• the identity belongs to the applicant; and
• the evidence meets the Companies House standard.

Step 4: ACSP Submission

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

The ACSP normally retains rather than submits the identity-document copies.

The records must be kept for seven years.

These records include:

• copies of documents;
• supporting evidence;
• checks completed;
• unsuccessful verification attempts; and
• other required information.

Step 5: Receive the Personal Code

Companies House sends the personal code to the applicant’s individual email address.

The applicant should:

• confirm that the email address is correct;
• ensure that the account is accessible;
• check the spam or junk folder;
• keep the code secure; and
• share it only with a trusted solicitor, accountant or company administrator.

Companies House controls the timing of the code’s issue and delivery.

Using the Personal Code

Directors

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

A new director provides the code during appointment.

Where the person is a director of several companies, the code must be connected separately to each appointment.

PSCs

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

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

Director and PSC of the Same Company

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

As a PSC, the person uses the separate PSC service during the relevant 14-day period.

That period starts on the day after the company’s confirmation statement date.

PSC Who Is Not a Director

A PSC who is not a director of the same company normally provides the code during the first 14 days of their birth month.

New PSC

A new PSC may provide the code when first added to the Companies House register or within 14 days of being added.

How Ginkgo Advisory Can Help

Ginkgo Advisory can help Japanese nationals by:

• reviewing current Japanese biometric passports;
• checking whether a passport matches JPN-AO-09001 or JPN-AO-09002;
• reviewing earlier Japanese passport models;
• assessing whether a passport should work through GOV.UK One Login;
• checking passport-chip problems;
• reviewing expired Japanese passports;
• checking whether a passport has been cancelled or replaced;
• reviewing Japanese emergency passports;
• reviewing return-to-Japan documents;
• reviewing My Number Cards as supplementary evidence;
• checking My Number Card and electronic-certificate expiry dates;
• reviewing overseas-use My Number Cards;
• connecting former surnames shown on My Number Cards;
• explaining why the My Number Card does not automatically qualify as Group A;
• reviewing physical Japanese driving licences;
• reviewing Myna driver’s-licence records;
• explaining why a Japanese driving licence does not automatically qualify as Group A;
• distinguishing a My Number from the Companies House personal code;
• confirming the correct Group A and Group B combination;
• reviewing Japanese bank statements and address documents;
• reviewing Japanese utility bills;
• checking official birth and marriage certificates;
• reviewing koseki documents;
• reviewing foreign certificates for Japanese nationals born or married abroad;
• comparing kanji, kana and Romanised names;
• checking Japanese and Western name order;
• reviewing different Romanisations;
• checking long-vowel spellings;
• reviewing bracketed former and alternative names;
• comparing the visual passport page with the MRZ and chip;
• connecting married and professional surnames;
• reviewing multiple-nationality documents;
• identifying date-of-birth and address differences;
• arranging the video call;
• completing the ACSP checks; and
• submitting the verification to Companies House.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use My Japanese Passport?

Yes.

A current Japanese biometric passport provides strong Group A evidence.

The current passport models are:

• JPN-AO-09001, red ten-year passport; and
• JPN-AO-09002, blue five-year passport.

Is the Japanese Passport Biometric?

Yes.

Japan has issued passports containing IC chips since 2006.

The current 2025 Passport also uses a polycarbonate personal-details page.

How Long Is a Japanese Passport Valid?

A Japanese passport may be valid for:

• ten years for an eligible applicant aged 18 or over; or
• five years.

A person under 18 normally receives a five-year passport.

Always check the printed expiry date.

Can I Use My Japanese Passport in the GOV.UK One Login App?

Potentially.

The passport chip, document photograph and facial comparison must pass the app’s checks.

What If the Passport Chip Does Not Work?

The passport may still qualify through an ACSP.

A person-led Option 2 check may remain available where the original passport can be examined and validated.

Can I Use an Expired Japanese Passport?

Potentially.

Option 1 may permit a biometric or machine-readable passport that expired within the previous six months.

Option 2 may permit a passport that expired within the previous 18 months.

The passport must not have been cancelled or replaced.

Can I Use a Cancelled Japanese Passport?

No.

A cancelled passport may provide historical evidence but cannot provide the current formal identity evidence.

Can I Use a Lost Passport That I Later Recovered?

No.

A passport reported lost or stolen should not be used.

Can I Use an Older Japanese Passport?

Potentially.

An earlier passport model may remain valid until its printed expiry date.

The individual passport must not have been cancelled or replaced.

Can I Use a Japanese Passport Issued in London?

Yes.

A passport issued following an application through the Embassy of Japan in London remains a standard Japanese passport.

Can I Use a Japanese Emergency Passport?

Potentially, but it requires individual review.

The ACSP must confirm its current validity, purpose and security features.

Can I Use a Document for Return to Japan?

Do not rely on it as the routine passport document.

A return document is usually restricted to allowing the holder to return to Japan.

Can I Use My My Number Card?

The My Number Card may provide useful supplementary evidence.

However, it should not replace the formal Companies House document combination because PRADO does not currently list it.

Is the My Number Card Group A?

Not automatically.

It does not fall within the current Option 1 identity-card countries and does not appear on PRADO.

Is the My Number Card Group B?

No.

A foreign identity card is not included in the published Group B list.

Does the My Number Card Prove Japanese Citizenship?

Not by itself.

Qualifying foreign residents in Japan can also hold My Number Cards.

A Japanese passport provides clearer evidence of Japanese nationality.

How Long Is a My Number Card Valid?

The physical card is generally valid:

• until the tenth birthday after issue for a person aged 18 or over; or
• until the fifth birthday after issue for a person under 18.

The electronic certificates are normally valid until the fifth birthday after issue.

Can I Use an Expired My Number Card?

Do not rely on it as current identity evidence.

Use a current passport and accepted second document.

Can I Use My Number Card While Living Abroad?

Eligible Japanese nationals can continue using or apply for an overseas-use My Number Card through the relevant procedures.

However, it still does not replace the formal Companies House document combination.

Can I Use a Smartphone My Number Card?

Do not rely on a smartphone function as the formal document.

It may provide supplementary electronic evidence.

Can I Send a Screenshot of Mynaportal?

No.

A screenshot does not replace an accepted identity document.

Can I Use My 12-Digit My Number?

No.

My Number is a personal identifier rather than photographic identity evidence.

It is also different from the Companies House personal code.

Can I Use My Japanese Driving Licence?

Do not rely on it as the formal second Group A document.

PRADO does not currently list Japanese driving licences, and Japan is outside the Option 1 UK and EU driving-licence categories.

Can My Japanese Driving Licence Support the Review?

Potentially.

It may help confirm the photograph, name, date of birth, Japanese address and current government activity.

Can I Use My Myna Driver’s Licence?

Do not rely on it as the formal Group A document.

The licence information is stored on the My Number Card’s IC chip and is not printed on the card’s surface.

Can I Use a Screenshot From the Myna Licence App?

No.

A screenshot should not replace the physical card and official live record.

Can I Use an Expired Japanese Driving Licence?

No, not as current supporting evidence.

Use a current licence or another document combination.

Can I Use a Japanese Bank Statement?

Potentially.

A bank statement falls within Group B.

It must be genuine, complete, clear and capable of validation.

Can I Use a Japanese Bankbook?

It requires individual review.

A bankbook page may not contain all the information needed to establish that it is a complete bank statement.

Can I Use a Japanese Utility Bill?

Potentially.

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

Can I Use a Japanese Mortgage Statement?

Potentially.

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

Can I Use a Japanese Insurance Policy?

Potentially.

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

Can I Use a Koseki?

A koseki may provide strong supplementary civil-status evidence.

However, Companies House does not expressly list a foreign family-register extract as Group B.

Use a specific birth or marriage certificate where possible.

Can I Use a Koseki Tohon?

Potentially as linking or supporting evidence.

The ACSP must review what information it proves and whether another formal Group B document is required.

Can I Use a Japanese Birth Certificate?

Potentially.

An official birth certificate or official certificate based on the registered birth may provide Group B evidence.

Can I Use a Foreign Birth Certificate?

Potentially.

Provide the complete official certificate together with any required translation, authentication and Japanese linking evidence.

Can I Use a Japanese Marriage Certificate?

Potentially.

An official marriage certificate or certificate of acceptance of the marriage notification may provide Group B evidence.

Can I Use a Foreign Marriage Certificate?

Potentially.

Provide the complete official certificate together with any required translation and Japanese linking evidence.

Do Japanese Documents Need an English Translation?

Some documents may require translation.

The passport contains standard Latin-script information. However, koseki, driving licences, bank statements and civil records may contain material details only in Japanese.

What If My Japanese and English Names Appear in Different Orders?

Provide the complete passport and supporting documents.

Japanese records may put the family name first, while a UK record puts the given name first.

What If My Name Uses Different Romanisation?

Provide the complete document set.

Different Romanisations may still belong to the same person, but the ACSP must connect them through reliable records.

What If My Name Contains a Long Vowel?

The long vowel may be shown using an extra letter, H, a macron or a simplified form.

The passport spelling should provide the main reference.

What If My Passport Shows a Former Surname in Brackets?

Provide the complete personal-details page.

The bracketed former surname appears only in the visible passport field. It does not appear in the MRZ or chip.

What If Companies House Uses My Former Surname?

Provide:

• current passport;
• former passport where available;
• marriage certificate;
• koseki;
• My Number Card showing the former surname where relevant; and
• documents showing the Companies House name.

Can My Former Surname Appear on My My Number Card?

Potentially.

The former surname can appear where it has been recorded in the certificate of residence.

What If I Use a Professional Name?

Provide documents linking the professional name to the formal passport name.

A professional name does not automatically become the person’s legal identity.

What If Companies House Reverses My Family and Given Names?

Provide the passport and civil documents.

The ACSP should use the labelled passport fields rather than relying only on the displayed order.

Can I Use Two Passports?

Potentially, but the case requires careful review.

Japan has rules requiring people with multiple nationality to choose a nationality within the applicable period.

The ACSP must confirm that both passports remain legally valid.

What If My Japanese and British Passports Show Different Names?

Provide both passports and the civil-status documents connecting the names.

The ACSP should establish the current legal identity and review the applicant’s nationality position.

What If My Date of Birth at Companies House Is Wrong?

Correct the Companies House record before attempting to connect the personal code.

The date of birth linked to the code must match the company record.

What If My My Number Card Shows an Old Address?

Use a current Group B address document.

The applicant must provide the actual home address and the previous 12 months of address history.

Can I Use a Juminhyo?

A juminhyo may provide useful supplementary address evidence.

However, it is not expressly listed as a Companies House Group B document.

Can I Verify My Identity While Living in Japan?

Yes.

An ACSP can complete the process remotely 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?

Two documents are required for person-led Option 2.

One eligible document may be enough under technology-led Option 1.

Must I Post My Original Japanese Passport?

Usually not for an approved remote video process.

Clear images are sent first, while the original documents are shown during the video call.

Can I Use One Code as Both Director and PSC?

Yes.

However, the code must be connected separately to each role.

Can the Verification Be Completed on the Same Day?

Same-day identity checks and ACSP submission may be available where the complete document set is approved in advance.

Companies House controls the later issue and delivery of the personal code.

Need Companies House Verification for a Japanese Director or PSC?

Japanese nationals will usually have one of these practical routes:

• Japanese biometric passport and accepted Group B supporting document;
• Japanese passport and UK photocard driving licence;
• Japanese passport and eligible UK immigration document;
• Japanese passport and another legally valid recognised passport; or
• one eligible Japanese biometric or machine-readable passport under Option 1.

Applicants should not currently rely on:

• My Number Card as the formal second Group A document;
• smartphone My Number Card function;
• Japanese driving licence as formal Group A evidence;
• Myna driver’s licence;
• Mynaportal profile;
• 12-digit My Number;
• koseki without confirming the relevant Group B category;
• juminhyo as an automatic Group B document; or
• screenshots from Japanese government services.

Some cases need extra care, including those involving:

• unreadable passport chips;
• 2025 Passport models;
• older Japanese passports;
• expired passports;
• cancelled or replaced passports;
• lost or stolen documents;
• emergency passports;
• return-to-Japan documents;
• overseas-use My Number Cards;
• expired electronic certificates;
• former surnames on My Number Cards;
• Myna driver’s licences;
• kanji and Roman-letter differences;
• reversed name order;
• long-vowel spelling differences;
• alternative Romanisation;
• former names shown in brackets;
• visible passport names that differ from the MRZ and chip;
• married or professional surnames;
• multiple-nationality documents;
• foreign birth or marriage records;
• incorrect date of birth;
• old Japanese address information; or
• details that do not match the Companies House register.

Ginkgo Advisory can review the documents, confirm the best 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.