Greek 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.

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

Quick Answer for Greek Directors and PSCs

Greek nationals usually have several strong identity document options.

Depending on the verification route, you may be able to use:

• a valid Greek biometric passport;
• the new Greek biometric identity card, known as a Δελτίο Ταυτότητας;
• a valid Greek EU photocard driving licence;
• an eligible UK-issued photographic document; or
• one Group A photographic document together with one Group B supporting document.

For a person-led remote video check, you normally need either two Group A photographic identity documents or one Group A photographic document and one Group B document. Anyone who lives outside the UK must provide at least one government-issued document.

For most Greek directors and PSCs, the strongest combinations are:

• Greek passport and new Greek biometric identity card;
• Greek passport and Greek EU photocard driving licence;
• new Greek identity card and Greek driving licence; or
• Greek passport and an acceptable bank statement, utility bill, mortgage statement, insurance policy or other Group B document.

Important Deadline: Older Greek Identity Cards and 3 August 2026

Greek nationals must take particular care if they still hold an older, large-format Greek identity card.

Older Greek identity cards generally use a paper-based or laminated format and do not contain a machine-readable zone, known as an MRZ. Greek authorities state that identity cards without an MRZ cease to be valid on 3 August 2026.

As this article was reviewed on 30 July 2026, those older cards are in their final days of validity. Applicants should not build a new Companies House verification around an old Greek identity card.

For any verification appointment taking place on or after 3 August 2026:

Do not use an older Greek identity card as one of the required Companies House identity documents. Use the new biometric identity card, a Greek passport, a Greek EU photocard driving licence or another accepted document instead.

Companies House does not normally allow expired documents unless its guidance gives a specific exception. It gives limited expiry exceptions for passports and some UK biometric documents, but it does not provide a general exception for an expired foreign identity card.

Why PRADO May Still Show Older Greek Cards

PRADO lists older Greek identity card models, including:

• GRC-BO-01005, first issued on 5 August 2016; and
• GRC-BO-01004, first issued on 1 July 2000.

PRADO describes these older models as Greek identity documents and records their historical document characteristics. However, a PRADO listing does not override a document’s current legal validity. Greek authorities have confirmed that cards without an MRZ cease to be valid on 3 August 2026.

The safest approach is to use the new Greek identity card introduced in September 2023.

The New Greek Biometric Identity Card

Greece began issuing its current identity card on 25 September 2023.

PRADO lists the document under reference GRC-BO-02001. The card:

• uses bank-card format;
• contains a colour photograph;
• includes an MRZ;
• contains modern physical security features;
• uses a contactless electronic storage medium;
• stores a digital facial image and two fingerprints;
• has a maximum validity of 10 years; and
• acts as a travel document within the EU and associated Schengen countries.

The new card can provide strong Group A evidence for a person-led Companies House check.

It may also qualify as the single identity document under Companies House Option 1 where suitable identity document validation technology can read and validate the card’s electronic and physical security features. Companies House expressly accepts biometric identity cards from EU countries under this route.

Who Must Complete Companies House Identity Verification?

The requirement applies to Greek nationals who are:

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

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

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

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

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

How Can Greek Nationals Verify Their Identity?

Greek nationals can use one of two main routes.

1. Verify Through GOV.UK One Login

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

There are three possible methods:

• the GOV.UK One Login app;
• online security questions; or
• verification at a participating UK Post Office.

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

Using a Greek Passport in the GOV.UK One Login App

A Greek national can normally try the app route with a valid biometric passport.

The app accepts a non-UK passport that contains a biometric chip. The applicant must scan the passport’s personal-details page and electronic chip. They must also complete a live facial comparison. An expired passport cannot be used through the app.

PRADO lists the current Greek ordinary passport under reference GRC-AO-04001. Greece first issued this model on 18 December 2023.

The current passport:

• contains an integrated polycarbonate personal-details card;
• carries the international e-passport symbol;
• contains electronic and physical security features;
• has a maximum validity of 10 years for applicants aged 15 or over; and
• has a maximum validity of three years for younger applicants.

A current Greek biometric passport will usually provide the clearest GOV.UK One Login route.

Can You Use a Greek Identity Card in the One Login App?

The GOV.UK One Login mobile app does not currently list EU national identity cards among its accepted app documents.

You should therefore not assume that the new Greek biometric identity card will work through the mobile app. The clearest overseas app route uses a biometric passport.

However, the Post Office route accepts a national identity photocard issued by an EU country. The new Greek identity card may therefore work where the online service directs the applicant to a participating Post Office.

An older Greek identity card should not be used for a Post Office appointment on or after 3 August 2026 because the old card will have ceased to be valid.

Can You Use a Greek Driving Licence in the App?

The mobile app does not accept a Greek driving licence as its driving-licence document. It accepts a UK photocard driving licence.

However, the Post Office route accepts EU photocard driving licences. A current Greek EU driving licence may therefore work where GOV.UK One Login offers the Post Office option.

A Greek driving licence can also provide Group A evidence through an ACSP.

Using the Post Office Route

You cannot simply attend a Post Office and ask for Companies House identity verification.

You must first:

1. start the Companies House identity verification service online;
2. enter the requested identity-document details;
3. choose a participating Post Office;
4. download the customer letter containing the QR code;
5. attend with the letter and original identity document; and
6. allow Post Office staff to scan the document and take your photograph.

The Post Office will not accept a photocopy or digital image. The customer letter normally gives you about 15 days to attend.

This route may suit Greek nationals who live in the UK. It will usually offer less convenience to someone living in Greece or another country.

2. Verify Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider

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

ACSPs commonly include regulated solicitors, accountants and company service providers. Companies House allows an ACSP to conduct checks remotely or in person. However, the ACSP must follow every step in the Companies House identity verification standard.

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

• lives in Greece or another country outside the UK;
• cannot complete GOV.UK One Login verification;
• cannot scan the Greek passport chip;
• wants to use a Greek identity card or driving licence;
• still holds an older identity card;
• needs help finding an alternative before 3 August 2026;
• has Greek and Latin versions of their name;
• has different transliterations across separate records;
• uses a gendered Greek surname;
• has added a spouse’s surname;
• needs help selecting a Group B document; or
• wants remote verification by video call.

How Many Documents Do You Need?

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

Option 1: Technology-Led Verification

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

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

Companies House permits the following documents under Option 1:

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

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

For Greek nationals, suitable Option 1 documents may include:

• a Greek biometric passport;
• the new Greek biometric identity card;
• a Greek EU photocard driving licence; or
• an eligible UK-issued immigration document.

An old Greek identity card without a chip and MRZ does not qualify through the biometric EU identity-card category.

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

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

Under this route, the applicant must provide either:

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

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

A passport can be up to 18 months expired under Option 2, provided it has not been cancelled or replaced.

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

Greek applicants who use a person-led remote service should prepare two suitable documents before the video appointment.

Group A Photographic ID for Greek Nationals

1. Greek Passport

A Greek passport normally provides the clearest Group A document.

PRADO lists the current Greek passport as:

• GRC-AO-04001;
• ΔΙΑΒΑΤΗΡΙΟ;
• first issued on 18 December 2023;
• a valid biometric ordinary passport; and
• a travel document issued to Greek nationals.

The passport has a maximum validity of 10 years for applicants aged 15 or over. It displays the e-passport symbol and contains modern physical and electronic security features.

For a person-led Companies House check, a passport may be up to 18 months expired.

However, you cannot use a passport that:

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

A current passport will normally make the process easier.

Earlier Greek Passport Models

PRADO lists several earlier Greek ordinary passport models. An earlier version may still provide Group A evidence where the individual passport remains current or falls within the Companies House expiry exception.

For GOV.UK One Login, the passport must remain valid and contain a working biometric chip.

2. New Greek Biometric Identity Card

The new Greek identity card normally provides the strongest second Group A document.

PRADO records the card as:

• GRC-BO-02001;
• ΔΕΛΤΙΟ ΤΑΥΤΟΤΗΤΑΣ / IDENTITY CARD;
• first issued on 25 September 2023;
• a valid identity document issued to Greek nationals;
• a bank-card-format document; and
• a travel document within the EU and associated Schengen countries.

The card includes a photograph, an MRZ, modern anti-counterfeit features and a contactless storage medium containing a digital facial image and fingerprints. Its maximum validity is 10 years.

A current card can provide Group A evidence under Option 2.

It may also work as the single document under Option 1 where suitable technology can validate the chip and all required security features.

Does the New Greek Identity Card Show the Personal Number?

Greece introduced a new Personal Number in 2025 to connect information held in different public registers. Greek authorities state that the number will also appear on new identity cards.

The Personal Number forms part of Greece’s administrative identity system. However, the number itself is not a separate Companies House identity document and is not the same as a Companies House personal code.

3. Older Greek Identity Cards

Older Greek identity cards may appear on PRADO under references including GRC-BO-01005 and GRC-BO-01004. These cards use a larger paper-based or laminated format and show personal information in Greek and Latin script.

However, Greek authorities confirm that old cards without an MRZ cease to be valid on 3 August 2026.

Therefore:

• do not use an old card for an appointment on or after 3 August 2026;
• do not assume that an “indefinite” printed or historic validity status keeps the card usable;
• do not rely on the fact that the document model still appears on PRADO; and
• prepare a passport, new identity card, Greek driving licence or Group B document instead.

Even where a verification takes place shortly before the deadline, an ACSP may prefer a stronger document because the card’s legal status will change almost immediately.

4. Greek EU Photocard Driving Licence

A valid Greek EU photocard driving licence can provide Group A photographic evidence.

Companies House expressly accepts EU photocard driving licences under both Option 1 and Option 2.

PRADO records the current Greek driving licence under reference GRC-FO-04001. Greece first issued this model on 4 July 2023.

The licence:

• uses bank-card format;
• contains a colour photograph;
• includes visible and tactile security features;
• establishes the holder’s identity within Greece;
• can have a maximum validity of 15 years; and
• does not, by itself, prove Greek nationality.

Send clear images of both the front and reverse before the video appointment.

Earlier Greek Driving Licences

PRADO also lists the previous Greek EU photocard model GRC-FO-03002, first issued on 19 January 2013. An individual card may still work where it remains valid and passes the required checks.

The verifier should check:

• the exact document model;
• the printed expiry date;
• the photograph;
• the physical condition;
• whether the authority has replaced the card;
• whether the security features remain visible; and
• whether the details match the passport or identity card.

A very old paper driving licence requires individual review. A current EU photocard licence will normally provide a clearer route.

5. Eligible UK-Issued Photographic Documents

Greek nationals who live in the UK may also hold another Group A document.

Examples include:

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

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

Greek Documents and Numbers You Should Not Rely On Alone

Greek Personal Number

The Greek Personal Number, or Προσωπικός Αριθμός, is not a Companies House personal code.

Greece introduced the Personal Number to connect information held in different public registers and provide one identification number for dealings with Greek public authorities. It may appear on a new Greek identity card.

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

Do not enter the Greek Personal Number when Companies House asks for your personal code.

AFM Tax Number

A Greek tax number, known as an AFM or Αριθμός Φορολογικού Μητρώου, is not a photographic identity document.

A tax certificate, Taxisnet screen or document that merely shows the AFM does not replace a passport, identity card, driving licence or Group B document under the Companies House rules.

AMKA Number

An AMKA is part of Greece’s social-security and healthcare administration.

The number itself does not provide Group A photographic identity evidence. It is also not listed as a Group B document under the Companies House standard.

Taxisnet or Gov.gr Account

A Taxisnet login, gov.gr account, online government profile or successful digital login does not replace the documents required by Companies House.

An ACSP may use an official online service to support or cross-check information. However, the applicant must still provide the required Group A and Group B evidence.

Digital Identity Card in Gov.gr Wallet

A digital Greek identity card may help with domestic Greek services. However, do not rely on a wallet screen, screenshot or QR code as the only document for a person-led Companies House check.

For remote verification, prepare the original physical passport, identity card or driving licence. The verifier may ask you to move or tilt the document to inspect its physical security features.

The Companies House Post Office route also requires original photo ID and does not accept a photocopy or digital image.

Old Greek Identity Card After 3 August 2026

An old Greek identity card will not remain usable merely because:

• PRADO still displays the historic document model;
• the card does not print an expiry date;
• the holder has used it for many years;
• the card remains in good physical condition; or
• a Greek organisation previously accepted it.

Greek authorities state that old cards without an MRZ cease to be valid on 3 August 2026.

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
• a qualifying UK local-authority or social-housing rental agreement.

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

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

Companies House tells ACSPs to ask for more documents where the main evidence does not confirm the applicant’s previous 12 months of address history or a change of name.

Greek Bank Statements

A Greek 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 and legible;
• contain no signs 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.

Greek Utility Bills

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

Examples may include:

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

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

A mobile telephone bill may require individual review, especially where it does not clearly show a residential address.

Mortgage Statements and Insurance Policies

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

An insurance policy may also qualify where it identifies the applicant and shows the current address. Companies House added insurance policies to the Group B list in June 2026.

Greek Birth Certificates

A Greek birth certificate may provide Group B evidence.

Greek records use several document types. The most relevant include:

• Lixiarchiki Praxi Gennisis — Ληξιαρχική Πράξη Γέννησης, the Registered Birth Act issued by the registrar where the birth was recorded;
• Pistopoiitiko Genniseos — Πιστοποιητικό Γέννησης, issued through the municipal Citizens’ Registry for Greek citizens; and
• an extract of the Registered Birth Act, which contains less information.

The Registered Birth Act is a living record that can show later changes. A full municipal birth certificate can also provide strong evidence. A short extract may not show enough parental or identity information for a complex check.

Send the complete certificate for review rather than:

• a hospital notification;
• a baptism invitation;
• a cropped image;
• an application receipt;
• an informal family record; or
• a translation without the original.

A Greek birth record may initially exist without the child’s forename. Where that occurred, the forename should have been added to the civil register. A certificate that still omits the applicant’s forename may not provide sufficient identity evidence.

Greek Marriage Certificates

An official Greek marriage certificate may provide Group B evidence.

A registered marriage is recorded through the relevant vital-statistics office, known as the Lixiarhio. The formal marriage record is called a Lixiarchiki Praxi Gamou, or Ληξιαρχική Πράξη Γάμου.

The marriage certificate may help connect:

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

Provide the complete official civil-registry record rather than only a church certificate, wedding photograph, invitation or informal extract.

English Translations

Greek passports, identity cards and EU driving licences display standardised Latin-script information that a trained verifier may understand.

Other documents may contain important details only in Greek.

The ACSP may therefore request an English translation of:

• a birth certificate;
• marriage certificate;
• bank statement;
• utility bill;
• mortgage statement;
• insurance policy; or
• formal name-change document.

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

Recommended Document Combinations

Greek Passport and New Greek Identity Card

This combination provides two strong Group A photographic documents.

The passport confirms identity and Greek nationality. The new biometric identity card provides a second modern photographic document.

This will often give a Greek director or PSC the strongest document set for a person-led remote check.

Greek Passport and EU Photocard Driving Licence

This combination also provides two Group A documents.

Both documents should show consistent:

• names;
• dates of birth;
• photographs; and
• other personal details.

The passport confirms nationality. The driving licence provides another photographic identity document.

New Greek Identity Card and Driving Licence

A valid new Greek identity card and current EU photocard driving licence may provide two Group A documents.

The verifier may still ask for a passport where the case needs clearer evidence of nationality, travel activity or identity history.

Greek Passport and Bank Statement

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

It may suit an applicant who:

• has not yet replaced an old identity card;
• does not hold a driving licence;
• cannot use the identity card for technical reasons; or
• wants to provide evidence of current financial activity.

Greek Passport and Utility Bill

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

The provider and account details must remain capable of validation.

Greek Passport and Mortgage Statement

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

Greek Passport and Insurance Policy

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

Greek Passport and Birth Certificate

An official Greek birth certificate may provide Group B evidence.

This combination can help where:

• the applicant has several forenames;
• a baptismal name appears on some records;
• the Greek and Latin spellings differ;
• Companies House records a shortened name;
• the applicant has changed their name; or
• the date of birth requires stronger support.

Greek Passport and Marriage Certificate

A Greek marriage certificate may provide Group B evidence and connect different surname formats.

This combination may help where:

• the applicant added a spouse’s surname;
• a UK bank account uses a married surname;
• Companies House records a double-barrelled name;
• the Greek passport retains the birth surname; or
• Greek and UK records use different name formats.

Greek Passport and UK Photocard Driving Licence

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

This can provide two strong photographic identity documents.

Greek Passport and UK Immigration Document

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

The ACSP must review the exact document type, its current validity and any Companies House expiry exception.

Greek Names, Transliteration and Surname Differences

They require careful review.

Greek Name Structure

Greek names normally contain:

• one or more forenames; and
• a family surname.

A child may take one parent’s surname or, in some cases, use a double-barrelled surname.

Different documents may show the names in different ways. For example:

• the passport may show every forename;
• a driving licence may omit one name;
• a bank statement may use initials;
• Companies House may record only one forename; or
• business correspondence may use an English version of the name.

The verifier must review the complete document set rather than relying on one field alone.

Greek and Latin Script

Greek passports show names in Greek script and provide a Latin-script transliteration.

Different records may transliterate the same Greek name in more than one way. For example, Αικατερίνη may appear as:

• Aikaterini;
• Ekaterini;
• Ekaterina; or
• Catherine.

The Latin spelling on the current Greek passport will normally provide the clearest reference point for Companies House identity verification.

Other common variations may include:

• ΓΕΩΡΓΙΟΣ, GEORGIOS and GEORGE;
• ΙΩΑΝΝΗΣ, IOANNIS and JOHN;
• ΔΗΜΗΤΡΙΟΣ, DIMITRIOS and DEMETRIOS;
• ΚΩΝΣΤΑΝΤΙΝΟΣ, KONSTANTINOS and CONSTANTINE;
• ΧΡΗΣΤΟΣ, CHRISTOS and HRISTOS; or
• ΑΙΚΑΤΕΡΙΝΗ, AIKATERINI and KATERINA.

An English form of a name is not automatically the same as the official passport transliteration. Send all relevant documents where Companies House uses a different version.

Gendered Greek Surnames

Greek family surnames may change according to the holder’s gender.

A male surname may end in:

• -os;
• -is; or
• -as.

The related female surname may end in:

• -ou;
• -i; or
• -a.

For example:

• PAPADOPOULOS and PAPADOPOULOU;
• GEORGIADIS and GEORGIADI;
• NIKOLAOU, depending on the family form; or
• other related male and female versions.

This does not mean that family members have unrelated surnames. However, the individual applicant’s own surname should remain consistent across their documents unless an official event explains the difference.

Married Names

Greek men and women normally keep their birth surnames after marriage.

They may add the spouse’s surname and create a double-barrelled form through a formal declaration before the Registrar. The addition does not automatically replace the person’s birth surname.

This can create differences where:

• a Greek passport shows the birth surname;
• a UK bank account uses the spouse’s surname;
• Companies House records a double-barrelled surname;
• business correspondence uses an informal married name; or
• a British passport uses a different name format.

Provide the marriage certificate and any formal registration evidence where the documents show different surnames.

Baptismal Names

A Greek child may receive an additional name through baptism after the initial birth registration.

Where a baptismal name appears on later documents but not on an earlier birth record, the applicant may need to provide a baptism certificate or updated civil-registry evidence linking the names. HM Passport Office recognises that a baptism certificate may confirm a middle name added after birth registration.

For Companies House verification, the passport and current identity card should normally provide the primary name reference.

Accents, Spaces and Hyphens

Greek names may contain:

• accents in Greek script;
• several forenames;
• hyphens;
• double surnames;
• different spacing;
• initials; or
• alternative English transliterations.

Before verification, compare:

• every forename;
• the official Latin transliteration;
• the Greek-script name;
• the exact family surname;
• any double-barrelled surname;
• former or married names;
• the full date of birth; and
• the Companies House record.

Check Your Date of Birth Before Verification

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

Problems can arise where:

• someone enters the personal code incorrectly;
• Companies House holds the wrong date of birth;
• the ACSP submits incorrect information;
• an incorporation filing contained an error; or
• separate Greek records contain inconsistent details.

Companies House may prevent the code from connecting to a director or PSC role where the details do not match. Check the register and correct any error before the compliance deadline.

Is a Greek Personal Number the Companies House Personal Code?

No.

The Greek Personal Number supports dealings with Greek public authorities and connects information held in Greek registers.

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 your personal code:

• Greek Personal Number;
• AFM tax number;
• AMKA number;
• passport number;
• identity-card number;
• driving-licence number;
• UK National Insurance number;
• company authentication code; or
• Taxisnet login details.

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 Greek directors and PSCs.

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

• we review and approve the documents in advance;
• the applicant supplies 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 or document concerns arise.

Applicants who still hold an old Greek identity card should prepare an alternative document before 3 August 2026.

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 a successful submission, Companies House states that the personal-code email should normally arrive within a few hours. This timing is not guaranteed.

How the Remote Verification Process Works

Step 1: Send Your Documents

Send clear images of the documents you want to use.

For a passport, provide the complete personal-details page.

For an identity card or driving licence, send both the front and reverse.

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

You must also provide:

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

Companies House requires ACSPs to collect this information and retain copies of the 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:

• the Greek passport model;
• whether the passport chip works;
• whether the identity card is the new biometric model;
• whether an older identity card remains legally valid;
• whether the verification will take place before or after 3 August 2026;
• whether the driving licence uses a valid EU photocard format;
• the printed expiry dates;
• the physical condition of each document;
• the Greek and Latin spellings of the name;
• former and married surnames;
• the current home address; and
• the previous 12 months of address history.

Where the proposed documents do not meet the standard, we identify a stronger 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 physical 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, that the documents appear genuine and that the identity belongs to you.

Step 4: Complete the ACSP Submission

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

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

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

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

Step 5: Receive Your Personal Code

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

Make sure that the email address is correct and that you can access it. Companies House sends the code only to that address.

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

How Greek Directors Use the Personal Code

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

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

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

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

How Greek PSCs Use the Personal Code

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

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

The deadline depends on the circumstances:

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

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

How Our Legal Consultant Can Help

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

• reviewing Greek biometric passports;
• checking the new Greek biometric identity card;
• identifying older Greek identity-card models;
• advising on the 3 August 2026 expiry deadline;
• reviewing Greek EU photocard driving licences;
• matching documents against the relevant PRADO entries;
• confirming the correct Group A and Group B combination;
• reviewing Greek bank statements and address documents;
• checking Greek birth and marriage certificates;
• explaining why an AFM, AMKA or Greek Personal Number does not replace an accepted document;
• comparing Greek and Latin name spellings;
• reviewing transliteration differences;
• checking gendered surname forms;
• connecting birth, married and former surnames;
• 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 Greek passport?

Yes.

A Greek passport provides Group A photographic identity evidence. A current biometric Greek passport may also work through the GOV.UK One Login app.

Can I use an expired Greek passport?

Potentially, depending on the route.

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

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

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

The passport must not have been cancelled or replaced.

Can I use the new Greek identity card?

Yes.

The current card, GRC-BO-02001, provides strong Group A photographic identity evidence. It may also qualify under Option 1 where suitable technology can validate its biometric and physical security features.

Can I use an old Greek identity card?

Do not use it for a verification that takes place on or after 3 August 2026.

Greek authorities state that old cards without an MRZ cease to be valid on that date.

My old identity card says it has indefinite validity. Can I still use it?

Do not rely on the historic “indefinite” status.

The EU security deadline and Greek implementation determine the document’s current validity. Older cards without an MRZ cease to be valid on 3 August 2026, even where an older PRADO entry describes the historic document model as having indefinite validity.

Can I use an old Greek identity card before 3 August 2026?

It may remain technically valid until the deadline, but it is not a sensible document for a new verification.

The card will cease to be valid almost immediately. An ACSP may request a passport, new identity card, driving licence or Group B document instead.

Can I use my Greek identity card in the GOV.UK One Login app?

Not through the mobile app based on the current published document list.

However, the Post Office route accepts national identity photocards from EU countries. The online service must first offer you that route.

Can I use the digital identity card in Gov.gr Wallet?

Do not rely on the digital version alone for a person-led ACSP check.

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

Can I use my Greek driving licence?

Yes.

A valid Greek EU photocard driving licence can provide Group A evidence.

Can I use my Greek driving licence in the GOV.UK One Login app?

Not as the app’s driving-licence document.

However, the Post Office route accepts EU photocard driving licences, and an ACSP can use a Greek EU licence under the Companies House standard.

Can I use an older Greek driving licence?

Possibly.

An earlier EU photocard model may work where the individual licence remains valid, matches a PRADO-listed model and passes the document checks.

A very old paper licence requires individual review.

Can I use my Greek Personal Number?

Not by itself.

The Greek Personal Number is an administrative identifier. It is not a photographic identity document and is not the same as your Companies House personal code.

Can I use my AFM?

No.

An AFM is a Greek tax number. It does not replace a passport, identity card, driving licence or Group B supporting document.

Can I use my AMKA?

No.

An AMKA is not a photographic identity document and is not listed as a Group B document under the Companies House standard.

Can I use a Taxisnet or gov.gr screen?

Not as one of the required documents.

An official digital record may help with additional checks, but it does not replace the required Group A and Group B evidence.

Can I use a Greek bank statement?

Potentially.

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

Can I use a Greek utility bill?

Potentially.

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

Can I use a Greek mortgage statement?

Potentially.

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

Can I use a Greek insurance policy?

Potentially.

An insurance policy falls within Group B where it clearly shows the applicant’s current address.

Can I use a Greek birth certificate?

Potentially.

A birth certificate falls within Group B. A full Registered Birth Act or municipal birth certificate normally provides stronger evidence than a short extract.

Can I use a Greek marriage certificate?

Potentially.

A marriage certificate falls within Group B and may also connect a birth surname with a spouse’s or double-barrelled surname.

Can I use a Greek baptism certificate?

A baptism certificate is not expressly listed as a separate Group B document.

It may help explain a forename added after birth registration, but it should not replace an accepted birth certificate, marriage certificate or other Group B document.

Do Greek documents need an English translation?

Some documents may need a translation.

Greek passports, identity cards and EU driving licences display Latin-script fields. However, civil-status records, bank statements, utility bills and other supporting documents may contain material information only in Greek.

Provide both the original and translation where requested.

What if Companies House uses a different transliteration of my Greek name?

Send the complete document set for review.

The verifier should compare the Greek-script name, the official Latin spelling in the passport, the machine-readable information and the Companies House record.

Differences such as GEORGIOS and GEORGE or AIKATERINI and CATHERINE may need supporting evidence.

Why is my surname different from my father’s or brother’s?

Greek surnames often use different male and female endings.

For example, a male surname ending in -os may have a female form ending in -ou. The verifier should consider the Greek naming convention while checking the applicant’s individual records.

What if I use my spouse’s surname in the UK?

Provide your Greek passport or identity card together with the marriage certificate and evidence of the surname used in the UK.

Greek nationals normally retain their birth surnames after marriage, although they may formally add the spouse’s surname.

Can I verify my identity while living in Greece?

Yes.

An ACSP can complete the check 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?

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

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

Must I post my original Greek passport?

Usually not for an approved remote video process.

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

Can I use one personal code as both a director and PSC?

Yes.

The personal code belongs to you. However, you must connect it separately to your director role and your 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 and complete all checks without an unresolved issue.

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

Need Companies House Identity Verification for a Greek Director or PSC?

Greek nationals usually have several practical document routes:

• a Greek passport plus the new biometric identity card;
• a Greek passport plus a valid EU photocard driving licence;
• the new identity card plus a Greek driving licence; or
• a Greek passport plus an accepted Group B supporting document.

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

• an old Greek identity card approaching the 3 August 2026 deadline;
• an old card without an MRZ;
• no new Greek identity card;
• an expired identity card or driving licence;
• Greek and Latin names that do not match;
• an English version of a Greek forename;
• a gendered surname;
• a married or double-barrelled surname;
• a baptismal name;
• only an AFM, AMKA or Greek Personal Number as additional evidence;
• an incorrect date of birth; or
• information that does not match the Companies House register.

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

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