A UK Private Limited Company (Ltd) is the most popular structure for British businesses, foreign founders setting up in the UK, and international tech companies opening a European hub.
Companies House processes most applications within 24 hours, with same-day premium service available. We handle name checks, Articles of Association, share structure, and provide a registered office for 12 months — an important benefit for non-UK founders.
Key benefits
- Limited liability. Shareholders are only liable up to the unpaid value of their shares.
- Same-day formation. Most Ltd companies are incorporated in 24 hours via Companies House Web Service.
- No residency requirement. Non-UK directors and shareholders are allowed; we provide a UK registered office.
- Strong banking ecosystem. Wise, Tide, Starling, Revolut Business — a wide range of UK fintechs onboard Ltds quickly.
- EU / global credibility. A UK company is widely recognised and trusted across global markets.
- Fixed corporation tax. 19–25% based on profits — predictable and reasonable.
Documents required
- Company name (we check availability)
- Director names, addresses and dates of birth
- Shareholder details and shareholdings
- Registered office address (we provide)
- SIC code (industrial classification)
- PSC (Person of Significant Control) declaration
How the process works
- Name & SIC check. Confirm name availability with Companies House and select correct SIC code.
- IN01 form filing. The company formation form (IN01) is filed online with Articles of Association.
- Certificate of Incorporation. Companies House issues the Certificate, usually within 24 hours.
- UTR & post-formation. HMRC sends Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) within 14 days for Corporation Tax registration.
Who is this for?
- UK residents starting a business
- Non-UK founders setting up an EU / UK-facing entity
- Existing companies expanding to the UK
- Founders relocating to the UK (Tier 1 / Innovator visas)