United Kingdom

Company Formation in United Kingdom

United Kingdom

Formation Time

1–2 business days

Min. Capital

£1 (no minimum)

Corporate Tax

25%

Foreign Ownership

100%

Overview

The UK offers one of the fastest and cheapest company formations in the world. A Private Limited Company (Ltd) can be incorporated with Companies House in as little as 24 hours for just £12 in government fees. The UK's global reputation, extensive treaty network of 130+ agreements, and robust common law legal system make it a premier choice for businesses seeking international credibility. While the 25% corporate tax rate is higher than some alternatives, the UK's access to financial markets, skilled workforce, and cultural links with 54 Commonwealth nations provide unmatched business advantages.

24-hour formation

£1 minimum capital

130+ tax treaties

Global credibility

Why Choose United Kingdom

Formation in 24 hours for £12 government fee

World's 6th largest economy — global credibility

130+ double tax treaties

English common law — gold standard for international business

No minimum capital requirement

Access to London financial markets

Innovator and Start-up visa routes available

Business Entity Types

Entity	Ownership	Directors	Capital	Tax	Best For
Private Limited (Ltd)	100%	1	£1	25% corporate tax (19% small profits rate on first £50K)	Most businesses — trading, services, tech
LLP	100%	2 designated members	None	Pass-through — partners taxed individually	Professional services, consulting, law firms
Branch	100%	1	None	25% on UK profits	Existing foreign companies

Step-by-Step Formation Process

Name Check & Reservation

Same day

Check availability on Companies House and reserve your company name.

Document Preparation

1 day

Prepare Memorandum, Articles of Association, and Form IN01.

Filing with Companies House

24 hours

Submit online or by post. Online is fastest and cheapest.

HMRC Registration

1–2 weeks

Bank Account Opening

1–4 weeks

Open a UK business bank account with a traditional or digital bank.

Costs & Fees

Government / License Fee	GBP 12+
Our Service Fee	USD 1,200+
Annual Renewal	USD 500+

Fees are indicative and may vary based on business activity, entity type, and additional approvals required. Contact us for a precise custom quote.

Get Custom Quote

Banking

The UK has the world's most developed digital banking ecosystem. For non-residents, digital banks like Wise Business and Revolut offer the fastest onboarding. Traditional banks (HSBC, Barclays, NatWest) require more documentation.

Account Opening Time

1 day (digital) to 4 weeks (traditional)

Multi-Currency

Yes — multiple currencies supported

Recommended Banks

Wise BusinessRevolut BusinessTideHSBCBarclaysNatWestStarling

Tax Overview

Corporate Tax

25% (19% small profits rate on first £50,000)

Personal Income Tax

20–45%

VAT / Sales Tax

20% standard (£90,000 threshold)

Capital Gains Tax

Corporation tax rate for companies

Withholding Tax

0% on dividends to non-residents (subject to treaties)

Double Tax Treaties

130 countries

Small profits rate of 19% on profits up to £50,000. Marginal relief between £50K–£250K.

Visa & Residency

Innovator Founder

3 years, ILR eligible

For innovative business ideas endorsed by an approved body

Skilled Worker

5 years, ILR eligible

For employees with a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor

Global Talent

5 years

Exceptionally talented individuals in tech, science, arts

Family visa: AvailableProcessing: 3–8 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a non-UK resident form a UK company?

Yes. There is no requirement for directors or shareholders to be UK residents. However, you will need a UK registered office address, which we provide as part of our service package.

Is the UK a good jurisdiction for tax planning?

The UK's 25% tax rate is not the lowest, but the extensive treaty network (130+ countries), small profits rate (19% on first £50K), and R&D tax credits make it competitive. For holding structures, other jurisdictions like Cyprus or the Netherlands may be more efficient.

How fast can I get a UK bank account?

Digital banks like Wise Business and Revolut can open accounts in hours, even for non-residents. Traditional banks take 2–4 weeks and may require an in-person visit to the UK.