A change is coming in the world of sanctions compliance this week, as the UK moves to one single sanctions list.
On Wednesday 28th January 2026 OFSI (Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation) Consolidated List is closing. From this date the UK Sanctions List (opens a new window) will be the single authoritative source of sanctions designations.
What does this mean for your practice?
If you work with a sanctions screening provider or have an in-house sanctions screening engine, do make sure that it pulls data directly from the UK Sanctions List and not the OFSI Consolidated List. New Designated Persons (an individual, entity or ship listed under UK legislation as being subject to sanctions) will no longer receive an OFSI identification. Any tool you use for screening purposes must therefore be able to pick up on UK Sanctions List Unique IDs.
From a risk management perspective, remember that a failure to comply with sanctions screening correctly is the responsibility of the firm in question, even if they use a third party technology provider for sanctions screening. It’s therefore important to make sure that the system you rely on is fully up to date.
If you undertake manual checks for sanctions screening, make sure you use the official UK Sanctions List search tool (opens a new window).
It’s also a good idea to ensure that your internal policies are updated to note the UK Sanctions List as the only source for sanctions screening from 28th January 2026.
Finally, consider whether a training session is needed to ensure all staff with any responsibility for sanctions checks are aware of the change.
Further guidance:
If you are unsure about the changes, always take advice. If you already have an external sanctions screening provider, take some time to check in with them. If you don’t yet work with a sanctions screening provider but would like to, a good place to start is the Law Society of Scotland’s list of strategic partners. Finally, the following government guidance provides useful information: