---
title: How To Register a Company in the UK
description: Everything you need to know to register a UK company from choosing a structure to Companies House registration, tax setup, and opening a business bank account. Written for international founders.
---

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# [How To Register a Company in the UK](https://business.pblink.co.uk/how-to-register-a-company-in-the-uk)

 Written by [Bart Kowalczyk](https://business.pblink.co.uk/author/bart) | 02/07/26 11:30

 

#### **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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