United Kingdom
The UK’s company incorporation process is widely regarded as one of the most efficient and user-friendly in the world. The central government body responsible is Companies House, which offers a fast, digital-first service. The most common business structure is the Private Limited Company (LTD). To incorporate, you need to choose a unique company name, appoint at least one director and one shareholder, and provide a
registered office address in the UK. A single individual can serve as both director and shareholder, and there are no residency restrictions, making it an ideal option for non-UK residents.
The core legal documents required are the Memorandum of Association and the Articles of Association. The Memorandum confirms the founders’ intention to form the company, while the Articles lay out the company’s internal operational rules. Standard templates are
available, which simplifies this step significantly. The entire application is typically submitted online, and a Certificate of Incorporation is often issued within 24 hours. After this, you must register with HMRC for Corporation Tax within three months. Postincorporation, companies are required to file annual accounts and a confirmation
statement with Companies House, ensuring ongoing compliance.
- Choose your name and address. Select a unique company name and secure a registered office address in the UK. This address will be used for all official correspondence and legal notices from Companies House.
- Appoint directors and shareholders. You must appoint at least one director and one shareholder. A single person can hold both roles, and there are no residency restrictions for either position.
- Draft company documents. Prepare the Memorandum and Articles of Association. The Memorandum confirms the initial shareholders, and the Articles set out the company's internal rules and regulations.
- Prepare for incorporation. Gather all necessary information, including details of directors, shareholders, share capital, and the company's business activities. Ensure all information is accurate and complete.
- Submit your application. File the incorporation application with Companies House. This can be done online, and the process is typically very fast, with a Certificate of Incorporation often issued within 24 hours.
- Complete post-incorporation tasks. After registration, open a corporate bank account, register for taxes with HMRC (Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs), and ensure you comply with all ongoing filing requirements.