• The United Kingdom offers a dynamic and business-friendly environment, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and global businesses. With Sperso Filings, forming a company in the UK is efficient, structured, and simplified.
• The legal framework for company registration is governed by the Companies Act 2006, supported by additional corporate regulations such as the UK Corporate Governance Code. These laws ensure transparency, accountability, and ease of doing business.
• Company formation in the UK is administered by Companies House—the official government body responsible for company registrations and compliance. Other relevant authorities, including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), also contribute to maintaining a secure and regulated business ecosystem.

Benefits of Incorporating a Company in the UK

• Easy Incorporation: Starting a business in the UK has become significantly easier in recent years. Whether registering a new company or filing tax returns, previous barriers have reduced. According to the World Bank, it takes just 13 days to set up a business in the UK—compared to the European average of 32 days—ranking the UK first in Europe and sixth globally.
• Government Support: The UK government offers various financial schemes and tax benefits for company owners, employees, and investors. Entrepreneurs can claim relief on sales of up to £10 million, and investors may receive up to £150,000 in annual tax credits.
• Access to Global Markets: The UK ranks second globally for Product Market Regulation, with minimal restrictions on entrepreneurship. It also ranks among the top three countries with the fewest barriers to trade and investment.
• Advanced Communication Infrastructure: The UK boasts a highly efficient communication system, leading the G7 in broadband reach and featuring one of the world’s strongest ICT infrastructures.

Documents and Information Required for Company Incorporation in the UK

• Memorandum of Association (MoA): A brief declaration confirming the founders’ intent to form the company and become its initial members.
• Articles of Association (AoA): The company’s core constitutional document, detailing administrative rules, director roles, shareholder rights, board resolutions, and procedures for smooth operations.
• Company Name: You must choose a unique and non-offensive company name that is not identical or too similar to existing names on the UK company register. Names must not contain restricted or sensitive terms unless permission is granted.

UK Registered Office Address Requirement

Every UK company must have a physical registered office address where all official communications—such as correspondence from Companies House and HMRC—are delivered. This address will appear on the public register and may also serve as the location for inspecting statutory records, unless a Single Alternative Inspection Location (SAIL) is chosen.

The registered address must be included on all company documents, including emails and websites. Sperso Filings can assist you in setting up a valid UK registered office address to meet all compliance needs.

First Officers

• Directors: A private limited company must have at least one director who is a natural person, 16 years or older, and not disqualified. It's advisable to appoint at least two directors for continuity in case one steps down or is unable to perform their duties.
• Company Secretary: Appointing a Company Secretary is optional unless specified in the company’s articles. The secretary can be an individual or a corporate body.
• Statement of Capital: This outlines the company's share structure and valuation. Companies can issue multiple share classes with varying rights—such as voting, dividend, capital, or redemption rights.
• Persons with Significant Control (PSC): Any individual or entity with significant control must be listed during incorporation. PSCs are those who hold substantial shares, voting rights, power to appoint directors, or otherwise control the company. This promotes transparency in company ownership and management.

Company Registration for Non-UK Residents

The registration process for non-UK residents is nearly identical to that for UK residents. Foreigners can act as directors, shareholders, or secretaries without any restrictions and don't need to reside in the UK. However, the company must be registered with Companies House in England and Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland—based on its official location.

Requirements for Registering a UK Limited Company

• Company Name: Must be unique and free from restricted terms.
• Director: At least one director aged 16 or above is required. There’s no upper limit on the number of directors.
• Shareholder: Only one shareholder is needed, with no maximum limit on appointments.
• Registered Address: A UK-based address is mandatory and will be listed on the public register.
• Service Address: Directors, secretaries, and PSCs must provide a service address. It can be international but will appear on the public record.

Key Considerations for Forming a UK Corporation

• Business Category: Applicants should explore the available categories of businesses in the UK. Choosing the right business type is essential during the company formation process.
• Name Selection: Depending on the target region, it may be beneficial to select a name that resonates better with the local audience and complies with UK naming guidelines.
• Domestic vs. International Structure: Decide whether the business will operate as a UK-based entity or serve international purposes. UK-specific laws apply if the company is formed as a domestic corporation.

Types of Business Structures – UK Company Formation

• Sole Trader: A single individual manages the business and bears unlimited liability. The person is fully responsible for all business debts.
• Partnership: Two or more individuals share ownership, profits, liabilities, and assets. Each partner is equally accountable.
• Limited Liability Partnership (LLP): A separate legal entity where each partner’s liability is limited to their capital contribution.
• Unlimited Company: Similar to a limited company, but members have unlimited liability. They are fully responsible for company debts.
• Limited Company: Offers limited liability to its owners. Personal assets remain protected in the event of company insolvency.
• Public Company (PLC): Owned by public shareholders. Shares are traded on the stock exchange. Disclosure of financial information is mandatory.
• Private Company: Privately held, not listed on stock exchanges. Can issue shares but ownership is usually restricted to a few individuals.

Eligibility Requirements for Forming a UK Company

• Minimum Share Capital: While there is no mandatory minimum share capital for private limited companies, at least one share of any value must be issued at the time of incorporation.
• Business Name: The company must have a unique name that is not identical or too similar to existing UK-registered companies. It must also comply with Companies House naming guidelines.
• Registered Directors: A UK company must appoint at least one director who is a natural person and 16 years or older. There is no maximum limit on the number of directors.

Procedure for UK Company Formation

1. Business Setup: Begin by setting up your business structure. Appoint key roles such as directors (must be 16+ years) and optionally a company secretary. Provide accurate service addresses for all officers.
2. Shareholders and PSC Identification: At least one shareholder is required. You must identify persons with significant control (PSC)—those with substantial authority in the company. PSC details must be submitted during registration.
3. Drafting Legal Documents: Prepare the Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA). These define your company’s objectives and rules. A valid UK registered office address is also required.
4. Company Registration: Choose and submit a relevant SIC code to describe your business activities. Complete your company registration with Companies House. Lastly, register for UK corporate tax to ensure legal tax compliance.

Why Choose Sperso Filings?

Sperso Filings works with a team of skilled business professionals who assist hundreds of companies every month across various sectors. We ensure all your documentation and registration needs are completed within just four working days. If you need revisions, we’ll take a couple of extra days to make the necessary changes — all at competitive pricing, both online and offline. Reach out to us for a smooth and reliable company registration process.