Introduction

Opening a company in the United Kingdom as a foreigner can take as little as one to two days. This guide provides guidance on starting a UK business seamlessly by (1) a registered office provider, (2) a UK accountant, and (3) a bank account.

In 2025, the number of UK foreign-owned companies increased to 14,574, comprising 31.8% from Europe and 22% from the United States.

Business structures and requirements

Business Structure Description Costs and Time Factors
UK private limited company (Ltd) – Most popular for foreign business expansions
– Setting up a limited company separate from your parent business		 – Costs up-front
– Quick setup time
UK branch registration – Another option for foreign entities to trade directly in the UK
– Requires you to file your parent company’s accounts with Companies House		 – Lower cost
– Longer set up time
Limited Liability Partnership Requires a UK joint partner to establish a business, which takes several weeks to months to set up – High cost
– Longer set up time

Step-by-step guide to registering for a UK company

Step-by-step process for setting up a UK limited company:

1. Choose a business structure & name using the company name availability check, and name at least one director (who can be a non-resident).

2. Register and office address, either by owning a physical location or hiring a registered office provider. Costs: ~£30–£150 per year (approximately ~USD 40-201).

3. Prepare the company’s “Articles of Association” and register with Companies House online or by mail. Cost: £50 (approximately ~USD 67.21).

4. Open a UK business bank account with the formation docs and proof of ID for directors (Free or monthly fees).

5. Register for Corporation Tax with HMRC within 3 months of starting to trade or becoming liable, and VAT if taxable turnover of >£90,000 (approximately ~USD 120,940.92). £500–£2,500 per year (approximately ~USD 671.84-3359.21).

6. If you’re hiring, set up PAYE and register as an employer with HMRC before the first payroll.

Potential partners and support services

When expanding into the UK, it is important to have the right parnters and support services. At GLOBAL ANGLE, we not only assist with your overall expansion strategy but also research and provide a tailored list of suitable partners that you may require, such as compliance specialists, legal advisors, and potential supply chain partners, logistics providers, distribution partners, and strategic business partners. This ensures that you are able to connect with trustred professinals who can streamline the incorporation process, reduce risks, and support long-term success in the market.

FAQ

Can foreigners register a company in the UK?

Yes, foreigners can register a company in the UK. You don’t need to live in the UK or hold a visa to incorporate and own a business; a visa is only required if you want to move to the UK to work for your company in person.

What is the cost of registering a company in the UK?

The cost of registering a company within the UK can be as low as £50 (approximately ~USD 67.19) online or £71 (approximately ~USD 95.41) by post. However, there are additional costs, including registered office space, accountants, and bank accounts, which depend on the company’s needs and size.

Work with us for your expansion into the United Kingdom

At GLOBAL ANGLE, our team combines local expertise with global experience to ensure a seamless market entry into the UK. We have successfully assisted clients in evaluating the feasibility of entering the UK market and developing strategies for smooth expansion. From assessing feasibility to building a winning strategy, we’ve helped international clients successfully establish their presence in the UK, and we can do the same for your company. Contact us today for a free, non-obligatory consultation.