Company Formation in UK

Establish your business swiftly and securely in one of the world’s leading corporate jurisdictions. The United Kingdom, known for its business-friendly environment, offers numerous advantages including fast company registration, competitive tax rates, crypto-friendly regulations, and straightforward compliance requirements. Although the UK is no longer part of the European Union, it retains privileged international status, ensuring seamless access to global markets.

Navigating the company registration and licensing processes, however, can be intricate and often requires detailed local legal expertise. Adam Smith provides comprehensive guidance and expert support throughout the entire formation process, ensuring your business can be operational in as little as 2–4 weeks.

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Quick & Simple Registration

Forming a company in the UK is fast and efficient, with most registrations completed within 24–48 hours. The process is streamlined and accessible entirely online.

Attractive Tax & Financial Environment

The UK offers competitive corporate tax rates and a stable financial system, making it an ideal base for international operations. No local residency is required for directors or shareholders.

Expert Legal Support

Receive end-to-end assistance from Adam Smith, ensuring your company is set up correctly and in full compliance with UK regulations. Benefit from clear guidance and predictable timelines at every stage.

Register Business in the UK – 2025 Overview

The United Kingdom is an independent jurisdiction with full authority over its corporate, legal, and tax frameworks. It offers a well-established legal environment for company formation, supported by transparent regulations and a globally respected financial infrastructure. Its predictable procedures, competitive tax regime, and absence of local residency requirements make it a preferred choice for both startups and established international businesses.

Company formation in the UK is managed by Companies House, the official registrar. Most companies can be incorporated within 24–48 hours through a fully digital process. As of 2024, over 5 million companies are registered in the UK, reflecting its popularity as a trusted business hub. A UK-registered entity benefits from strong international credibility, often improving access to global banking, partnerships, and investment opportunities.

Why Choose the UK for Your Business?

The UK is a dynamic and stable business environment. With its long history of commerce and innovation, the UK offers many advantages to entrepreneurs: Firstly, the UK has a strong and diverse economy making it an attractive destination for various industries. The country’s location serves as a gateway to Europe and the rest of the world, facilitating international trade and expansion. Secondly, the UK has an established legal system that protects business interests and intellectual property. This transparency gives confidence to investors and business owners. Thirdly, the UK government offers various incentives and support to startups and established businesses including tax reliefs and grants to promote innovation and growth. Our company registration service is designed to help entrepreneurs and businesses to establish a legal presence in the UK. By using our service you can:

Get Access to the UK Market

Boost Your Business Credibility

A UK registered company benefits from the country’s good reputation which can boost trust among clients, partners and investors globally.

Enjoy Tax Benefits

The UK has competitive corporate tax rates and many double taxation agreements which can reduce your overall tax liability.

Access to Skilled Workforce

The UK is home to highly educated and skilled workforce which can provide your business with the human resources you need to succeed.

Simplified Registration Process

With us, the process of registering a company in the UK is quick and easy so you can focus on building your business.

Start Your UK Company Today

Get started with confidence. Our team will guide you through the company formation process.

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Requirements for Company Formation in the UK

Company formation in the UK involves meeting specific legal and procedural requirements. Below is an overview of the key requirements:

Company Name

Choose a unique name that complies with UK naming regulations. The name must not be identical or too similar to an existing company name and should not contain sensitive words without appropriate permission.

Registered Office Address

Provide a physical address in the UK that will be the official address of your company. This address will be publicly available and used for official correspondence.

Directors

Appoint at least one director who is at least 16 years old. Directors are responsible for managing the company and ensuring compliance with legal obligations.

Shareholders

Have at least one shareholder or guarantor. Shareholders are the owners of the company and can be individuals or corporate entities.

Memorandum and Articles of Association

Prepare these constitutional documents that outline the company’s structure and governing rules. Memorandum of Association records the intention of the subscribers to form a company and Articles of Association detail the internal management affairs.

Persons with Significant Control (PSC)

Identify and register individuals or entities that have significant control over the company, such as owning more than 25% of shares or voting rights.

Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) Code

Specify the SIC code that describes your company’s business activities. This code is used to classify the nature of your business.

Compliance with these requirements is essential for successful incorporation and operation of your company in the UK. Our team will guide you through each step, providing expert advice and support to make the process smooth.

How to Formation a Company in the UK

Forming a company in the United Kingdom involves a series of steps. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth and compliant formation.

Choose a Company Name

Select a unique name that complies with UK naming regulations. Ensure the name is not identical or too similar to existing companies and does not contain restricted words without appropriate permissions.

Determine the Company Type

Decide on the type of company that suits your business needs, private limited company (Ltd) or public limited company (PLC).

Appoint Directors and Company Secretary

Appoint at least one director who is at least 16 years old. Although not mandatory, you can also appoint a company secretary to assist with compliance and administrative tasks.

Identify Shareholders or Guarantors

Determine the initial shareholders or guarantors of the company. A private limited company must have at least one shareholder who can also be a director.

Prepare Memorandum and Articles of Association

Draft the Memorandum of Association which outlines the company’s founding members and Articles of Association which detail the rules of the company.

We will submit the required documents and registration fee to Companies House. This includes Memorandum and Articles of Association and relevant forms to inform UK registrar about the company’s directors, shareholders and registered office.

Within three months of starting business activities, register your company with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) for Corporation Tax.

Open a Business Bank Account

Open a business bank account to manage the company’s finances and keep personal and business transactions separate.

By following these steps carefully, you will have a solid legal foundation for your company to succeed in the UK.

Ready to Establish Your UK Company?

Embark on your business journey with confidence. Our team of experts is here to guide you through every step of the company formation process, ensuring compliance and efficiency.

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Our Pricing

We have company formation packages to suit different business needs. Below are our offerings:

Basic

^£100 1-2 Business Days
- Payment of government tax of £50
- Company name availability check
- Preparation and filing of incorporation documents
- Digital copies of Certificate of Incorporation and Memorandum & Articles of Association
- Free UK business bank account referral
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Standard

^£150 1-2 Business Days
- All features of the Basic Formation Package
- Printed Certificate of Incorporation
- Printed Memorandum & Articles of Association
- VAT registration assistance
- Free domain name for one year
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Premium

^€200 1-2 Business Days
- Registered office address service for one year
- Director's service address for one year
- Priority filing with Companies House
- Business telephone number setup
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Additional services

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Services	Costs
Annual return filling	£77,00
Dorman account filling	£50,00
Company dissolution	£100,00
Company Name Change	£100,00
Director appointment & resignation	£25 per operation
Appostilled documents	£120,00
Issue of shares	£96,00
Transfer of Shares	£96,00
Certificate of good standing	£50,00
VAT registration	£50,00
Certificate of incumbency	£50,00
Open Payment account in PI	£350,00
Address for 12 months	£50,00

Meet Our Team

Our dedicated team of professionals is committed to provide exceptional service and expert guidance throughout your company formation journey.

Dmitry M. Head of Sales Department Contact

Mark M. Sales Representative Contact

Patrik A. Lawyer Contact

FAQs

How many directors are required for a UK company?

At least one director for a private limited company in the UK.

Can a foreigner be a director of a UK company?

Yes, no residency or nationality restrictions for directors of UK companies.

How long does it take to form a company?

Online applications are processed within 24 hours, postal applications take 8-10 days.

Is a company secretary mandatory?

No, optional for private limited companies.

What is a registered office?

The official address of the company in the UK where official documents are sent.

Do I need a business bank account?

Not required but recommended to keep financial records separate.

What are the ongoing compliance requirements?

File annual accounts and confirmation statement with Companies House and Corporation Tax returns with HMRC.

Can I change my company name after incorporation?

Yes, you can change your company name post incorporation by passing a special resolution and notify Companies House.

What is a SIC code?

A Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code for your business activity required during registration.

Are there any restrictions on company names?

Yes, company names cannot be the same or too similar to existing names and cannot contain sensitive words without permission.

What is the difference between a shareholder and a guarantor?

Shareholders own shares in the company, guarantors pledge a certain amount to cover debts if the company cannot pay.

Do I need to register for VAT?

If your company’s turnover exceeds the VAT threshold, you must register for VAT with HMRC.

What is a UTR number?

A Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) number issued by HMRC after company registration.

Can I use a residential address as the registered office?

Yes, but note that the registered office address is a public document.

What are the duties of a director?

Directors are responsible for running the company, ensuring compliance with the law and acting in the best interests of the company.

How do I strike off a company?

You can apply to Companies House for voluntary striking off if the company has not traded for three months.

What is a PSC register?

The People with Significant Control (PSC) register contains information about individuals who have control over the company.

Do I need an accountant?

Not mandatory but recommended to ensure tax compliance and manage financial records.

Can I form a company myself or use a formation agent?

You can register a company yourself with Companies House or use a formation agent to help with the process.