Step-by-step guide for international entrepreneurs
Can a foreigner register a company in the UK?
Yes. There is no requirement to be a UK citizen, resident, or national to register a company in the UK. A director or shareholder can be based anywhere in the world. This makes the UK one of the most accessible jurisdictions for international entrepreneurs looking to establish a business presence.
What types of company can you register in the UK?
The four most common structures are:
Private Limited Company (Ltd)
The most widely used structure for trading businesses. Offers limited liability (personal assets are protected), professional credibility, and a clear separation between the business and its owners. This is the structure most international founders choose.
Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
Suitable for professional services firms (solicitors, accountants, architects) where there are multiple partners. Combines limited liability with the flexibility of a partnership structure.
Sole Trader
The simplest structure, requiring only HMRC registration rather than Companies House incorporation. No limited liability protection. personal assets can be at risk if the business incurs debts.
Branch of an overseas company
Rather than incorporating a new UK entity, an overseas company can register a UK branch. This is often used when a Polish or European company wants a UK presence without creating a fully separate legal entity.
How do you register a private limited company in the UK?
Step 1: Choose a company name
Must be unique. Check availability at the Companies House name availability tool. Cannot include sensitive or restricted words without approval.
Step 2: Choose a registered address
Every UK company must have a UK registered office. If you don't have a UK address, registered address services are available from accountants and specialist providers (typically £50–£200/year).
Step 3: Appoint at least one director
Directors can be of any nationality and based anywhere in the world. The director's name becomes part of the public Companies House record.
Step 4: Register with Companies House
Register online at companieshouse.gov.uk. Fee: £100. You will receive a Certificate of Incorporation within 24 hours. Same-day service available for £128 total.
Step 5: Register for Corporation Tax
Within three months of starting to trade, register with HMRC for Corporation Tax via your Government Gateway account.
Step 6: Register for VAT (if applicable)
Mandatory if taxable turnover exceeds £90,000 in a rolling 12-month period (2025 threshold). Voluntary registration is available below this threshold.
Step 7: Open a business bank account
Essential for a limited company, all company finances must be kept separate from personal finances. Most banks require proof of incorporation and ID verification.
What are the ongoing filing requirements for a UK company?
UK limited companies must file annually with both Companies House and HMRC:
Confirmation statement: Annually — £34 — confirms registered information is accurate
Annual accounts: Due 9 months after accounting period end date
Corporation Tax return (CT600): Due 12 months after accounting period end date
Corporation Tax payment: Due 9 months and 1 day after accounting period end date
VAT returns: Quarterly (if VAT registered)
PAYE and payroll: Monthly or quarterly (if employing staff)
Can I run a UK company from another country?
Yes. There is no residency requirement for UK company directors. However, for tax purposes, where your company is managed and controlled from determines its tax residency. A company incorporated in the UK but managed entirely from Poland may be treated as tax resident in Poland by Polish tax authorities. Taking advice from a tax adviser familiar with both jurisdictions before incorporating is strongly recommended.
Frequently asked questions
Can a non-UK resident be a director of a UK company?
Yes. There are no nationality or residency requirements for UK company directors. Directors can be based anywhere in the world.
What is the difference between a sole trader and a limited company in the UK?
A sole trader is an individual trading in their own name, with no legal separation between the person and the business. A limited company is a separate legal entity. Limited company directors have limited liability — personal assets are generally protected if the business incurs debts.
Do I need an accountant to register a UK company?
No. You can register directly with Companies House without professional help. However, for international founders unfamiliar with UK corporate and tax obligations, working with a UK-based accountant from the start avoids costly compliance errors later.
What happens if I miss a filing deadline?
Late filing of annual accounts incurs automatic financial penalties starting at £150. Failure to file a confirmation statement can result in the company being struck off the Companies House register. HMRC late filing penalties apply separately to tax returns.
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