UK LTD formation with Companies House
A UK private company limited by shares is incorporated with Companies House. We help you gather the incorporation details, explain the identity verification steps that now apply to directors and people with significant control, coordinate the application and set out the filing duties that start once the company exists.
Who this service is for
- Founders in or outside the UK who plan to sell to UK or European customers.
- Amazon sellers considering a UK company for the UK marketplace.
- Consultants, agencies and online service businesses.
- Existing businesses exploring a UK company alongside another entity (structure questions should also go to an adviser).
Support available
Company name checks
We check proposed names against the Companies House index and flag words that need extra permission or supporting evidence.
Officer and shareholder details
We collect and organise the details for directors, shareholders and people with significant control (PSCs), and the share structure.
Identity verification guidance
Directors and PSCs must verify their identity with Companies House. We explain the routes available, through GOV.UK One Login or an authorised corporate service provider, and the timing.
Registered office and email
A UK company needs an appropriate registered office address in the UK and a registered email address. A registered office service is available only if quoted.
Activity codes and articles
We help you choose SIC codes for your activity and discuss whether model articles of association suit you.
Post-incorporation checklist
We outline the confirmation statement, annual accounts, Corporation Tax registration with HMRC and questions to raise with an accountant, such as VAT.
Typical process
Tell us your plan
Share the business activity, who will be directors and shareholders and whether you have a UK address.
Receive a quotation
We confirm which items are included and send a tailored quotation.
Prepare the details
Names, officers, shareholders, PSCs, registered office and SIC codes are confirmed; individuals complete identity verification.
Apply to Companies House
The incorporation application is prepared and submitted.
Incorporation
Companies House reviews the application and, if accepted, issues the certificate of incorporation.
Next steps
We hand over the documents and walk through the post-incorporation checklist.
Steps and timing depend on your circumstances and on the organisations involved. Your quotation sets out the agreed steps.
Information needed to start
To prepare an accurate quotation, it helps to have the following ready. Please do not send identity documents, bank details or passwords through the website.
- Two or three proposed company names
- Directors' names and countries of residence
- Shareholders and the intended share split
- Anyone who will be a person with significant control
- Your plan for a UK registered office address
- An email address to use as the registered email address
- A short description of the business activity
Scope and exclusions to confirm
Your written quotation is the final word on what is included. These points are confirmed with every client:
- The Companies House fee is a government charge, confirmed in your quotation.
- Registered office, service addresses, accounting, HMRC filings, VAT registration and bank accounts are only included if quoted.
- Identity verification is completed by each individual through the official routes; we explain the steps but cannot verify on anyone's behalf.
- We do not provide legal, accounting or tax advice.
- Companies House sets its own processing times.
Frequently asked questions
Can I form a UK LTD if I don't live in the UK?
Directors and shareholders do not have to live in the UK. The company does need an appropriate UK registered office address, and directors and PSCs need to complete Companies House identity verification.
What is a person with significant control?
A PSC is someone who owns or controls the company, for example by holding more than 25% of the shares or voting rights. Their details are recorded on the public register.
Do directors have to verify their identity?
Yes. Companies House introduced identity verification for directors and PSCs, and it now forms part of incorporating a new company. Check the current rules on GOV.UK before applying.
What does a UK company file every year?
Every UK company files annual accounts and a confirmation statement with Companies House, and deals with Corporation Tax through HMRC. An accountant can advise on your specific obligations.
Can my UK company sell on Amazon?
Amazon sets its own seller registration requirements. A UK company can apply, and our Amazon & Ecommerce services can help you plan the next steps, but approval is Amazon's decision.
Clients who chose this service
Discuss your UK LTD Formation requirements
Share a few details and we will prepare a tailored quotation. Nothing is included unless it is listed in writing.