Verifying Your Identity for an ID1 From Overseas

Living outside the UK does not stop you sorting out an ID1. You can be verified by video call from almost anywhere in the world.

So this guide explains the two routes HM Land Registry allows and what you need. It also covers fitting a call around your time zone. Our full set of guides covers the rest of the process.

The short answer

In most cases, a UK solicitor can verify you on a live video call while you are abroad. Then they complete form ID5, which goes with your ID1.

So you do not need to fly home, and you do not need to find a local notary. Our ID1 form verification online page explains the service in full.

Two routes HM Land Registry allows

The first route is a video call with a UK conveyancer. HM Land Registry sets no limit on where you are during the call. The conveyancer takes a screenshot of you, and a printed colour copy goes in with the ID5.

Meanwhile, the second route is a local lawyer or notary public in the country where you live. However, this route is only for people who cannot be verified by a UK conveyancer.

If you use it, the lawyer or notary completes section B of the ID1. They must also enclose written evidence of their authority to practise in that country. And if that evidence is not in English or Welsh, a certified translation must go with it.

Why most overseas customers choose video

The local route sounds simple, but it often is not. First, you have to find a notary who understands an English form. Then you may need to pay for a translation of their evidence.

By contrast, a video call takes minutes. As a result, you stay at home, and a UK solicitor who knows the form handles it. Our ID5 guide explains how the video check works.

What you need for your call

Thankfully, the document rules are the same wherever you live. Most overseas customers use a passport, because most of the other accepted documents are UK bills.

• A current, valid full passport. It can be from any country, but it must not be expired.
• Your ID1 form with section A filled in.
• The address of the property in England or Wales, and the title number if you know it.
• A phone, tablet or laptop with a working camera and a steady connection.

You do not need passport photos for a video check. Instead, the solicitor takes the screenshot during the call. Our guide to the ID documents you need lists every accepted document.

Working across time zones

Appointments run from 9am to 8pm UK time, seven days a week. So even with a big time difference, there is usually a slot that works for you.

Also, WhatsApp is often the easiest way to reach us from abroad. Send a few times that suit you, and we will find one that works on both ends.

Timing matters

Your completed forms must reach HM Land Registry within three months of being signed. So if your application is still weeks away, book your call closer to the time.

Then, after a successful call, your completed forms are sent to you the same day. After that, you or the person handling your application send them in with the rest of the paperwork. Our guide on how long an ID1 is valid explains the deadline.

How your video verification works

1. Book a time. Book online, or message us on WhatsApp with your time zone first.
2. Join the video call. Hamzah Nabeel Mahmood, an SRA-regulated solicitor, checks your passport and confirms who you are.
3. Get your forms. After that, he completes and signs the ID5 video verification record, which goes with your ID1.
4. Send them in. Finally, the forms go to HM Land Registry with the rest of your application.

Frequently asked questions

How much does ID1 verification from overseas cost?

Each overseas ID1 verification is a fixed £99 per person, which includes the ID5 video verification. Customers in the UK pay £79.

Do I need a notary in my own country?

No, not if a UK solicitor verifies you by video. The local notary route is only for people who cannot be verified by a UK conveyancer.

Can a notary in the USA or another country sign my ID1?

Only if a UK conveyancer cannot verify you. In that case, they complete section B and enclose written evidence of their authority to practise. If that evidence is not in English or Welsh, a certified translation must go with it.

Can I use a passport from another country?

Yes. A current, valid full passport from any country is accepted. The verifier records the country of issue and the passport number.

Do I need passport photos for a video check?

No. The solicitor takes a screenshot during the call instead. A printed colour copy of it goes to HM Land Registry with your ID5.

What if there is a big time difference?

Appointments run from 9am to 8pm UK time, seven days a week. So most time zones still have a workable slot.

Does it matter where the property is?

Yes. The property must be in England or Wales, because that is where HM Land Registry operates. You, however, can be anywhere in the world.

When should I book my call?

Book close to when your application will be sent. Your completed forms must reach HM Land Registry within three months of being signed.