This blog provides comprehensive information on company registration in the UK, outlining benefits, eligible business structures, and regulatory authorities. It covers the registration procedure, documentation required, and details about the UK's corporate tax system.

Introduction

The United Kingdom (UK) offers a competitive and vibrant business environment, renowned for its transparent regulatory system, robust legal framework, and dynamic economy. Registering a company in the UK provides numerous benefits, making it a preferred choice for entrepreneurs and businesses worldwide.

The United Kingdom has long been a favoured destination for global businesses due to its supportive business environment, advanced amenities, efficient governance, and stringent rule enforcement. London, the capital, is recognised as a leading global financial hub. The UK draws in top talents worldwide, providing industries and businesses with a well-educated and skilled labour force. Furthermore, the legal framework in many countries, particularly former colonies, mirrors the British system, simplifying the process for entrepreneurs to integrate their businesses seamlessly into the UK economy.

Benefits of Company Registration in the United Kingdom

The UK ranks high in the World Bank’s ‘Ease of Doing Business’ report, with a company registration process taking just 24 hours. No minimum capital is required for registration, with only a single shareholder and director needed. The appointment of a company secretary is optional for private companies.

The UK’s legal system aligns with many globally, aiding companies in adopting the system easily. The nation supports a vibrant business ecosystem, attracting world-class talent through strong ties between academic institutions and businesses.

Its strategic location between East and West and central timezone positioning, along with being a significant global financial centre, enhances its appeal. The environment is conducive to research and development activities.

The UK proves advantageous for International holding companies due to its legal framework, providing:

• Exemptions on dividends received from foreign sources under certain conditions.
• No withholding tax on dividends distributed to shareholders or parent companies, irrespective of their residential status.
• Absence of duties on paid-up or issued share capital, and a low stamp duty of just 0.5%.
• The UK tax regime exempts capital gains tax on the disposal of a ‘substantial shareholding’ in a trading or holding company. Substantial shareholding implies owning at least 10% of a company’s ordinary shares for a continuous 12-month period within the six years preceding the sale.

Relief is also available for the disposal of shares in companies specifically owned by Qualified Institutional Investors (QIIs).

Tax advantages: 

The United Kingdom boasts a vast network of double tax agreements, providing incentives for businesses globally to establish their operations in the UK. Additionally, the tax system offers numerous incentives for technology and fintech firms.

As of April 1, 2023, the corporate tax rate in the UK is 25% for all companies (except ring fence firms) earning over £250,000 annually. Companies with profits under £50,000 annually are taxed at a rate of 19%, with marginal relief applicable for earnings up to £250,000.

Skilled workforce: 

The UK boasts a diverse, well-educated, and skilled workforce, which can be a great asset to any business.

Regulatory Authority/ Body for Company Registration in the United Kingdom

Companies House is the regulatory body responsible for company registration in the UK. It oversees the incorporation and dissolution of companies, maintaining company information and public records.

Eligible Business Structures under Company Registration in the United Kingdom

The UK Companies Act of 2006 acknowledges various forms of enterprises, including limited and unlimited firms, private and public entities, companies with limited shares and share capital, as well as community interest companies. The most prevalent forms of businesses in the UK, however, include:

• Private Companies Limited by Shares
• Public Companies Limited by Shares
• Private Companies Limited by Guarantee
• Private Unlimited Companies

Additionally, there are a few other business structures less frequently utilised in the UK, including:

• Community Interest Companies
• Unregistered Companies

Procedure for Company Registration in the United Kingdom

The company registration process in the UK is straightforward:

• Choose a unique company name.
• Prepare essential documents, including a Memorandum and Articles of Association.
• Identify your directors and secretary.
• Declare your registered office.
• Register with Companies House, either online, by post, or using an agent.
• Once Companies House approves your application, you’ll receive a Certificate of Incorporation.

Corporate Tax in the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom imposes a corporate tax rate of 25% on all companies (excluding ring fence companies) that earn more than £250,000 per year. However, for companies earning less than £50,000 annually, there is a lower tax rate of 19% with marginal relief applicable for profits up to £250,000. These tax rates will take effect from 1st April 2023.

Documents for Company Registration in the United Kingdom

The following are the required documents for the registration of a company in the UK:

• Memorandum of Association
• Articles of Association
• Form IN01
• Form OS IN01 in case of a foreign company
• Founders and Co-Founders’ Agreement
• Personal information about shareholders and guarantors (e.g., birthplace, mother’s maiden name, father’s first name, phone number, national insurance number, passport number)

Alternate registration methods include:

• Postal service using Form IN01
• Through an agent
• Using third-party software
• Within three months of initiating business, companies must register for Corporation Tax. Generally, this registration occurs simultaneously with the Companies House registration. If this isn’t feasible, the registration can be performed separately with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) post Companies House registration.

Foreign companies must provide the following for registration:

• Company name
• Details of the accounts and constitutional documents
• Principal place of business and registered office address
• Company’s objects
• Issued share capital
• Information about the company officers

Documents for registering a UK Branch Office (Registered UK Establishment) include:

• Branch office name
• Branch office registered address
• Type of business activities
• Permanent representative of the UK establishment
• Details of the person authorised to accept service on behalf of the branch office

Steps for Startups and Smes to Incorporate a Company in the UK

Step 1: Choosing a Company Name

The first step in incorporating a company in the UK is to choose a unique company name that is not already in use by another company. It is also essential to avoid using any prohibited words or phrases, as these can cause delays in the incorporation process. Once a suitable name has been selected, entrepreneurs can move on to the next step.

Step 2: Selecting Directors and Shareholders

In the UK, a company must have at least one director who is over the age of 16. There is no limit to the number of directors that can be appointed, but at least one director must be a natural person, i.e., not a company. Additionally, a company must have at least one shareholder, who can also be a director. Again, there is no limit to the number of shareholders that can be appointed, and shares can be held by individuals or companies.

Step 3: Registering with Companies House

Once a company name has been chosen, and directors and shareholders have been selected, the next step is to register the company with Companies House. This is done by filing the necessary documentation, including a memorandum of association, articles of association, and a statement of capital. It is essential to ensure that these documents are accurate and up-to-date, as any errors or omissions can cause delays in the registration process.

Step 4: Filing the Necessary Documentation

In addition to the documentation required for registration, company incorporation in UK must also file annual returns and accounts with Companies House. These documents provide important information about the company’s financial performance and are required by law. It is essential to ensure that these documents are filed on time, as failure to do so can result in penalties and fines.

Step 5: Compliance with UK Taxation and Employment Laws

Finally, it is essential to ensure compliance with UK taxation and employment laws. Companies in the UK must register for VAT if their turnover exceeds a certain threshold and must deduct and pay income tax and national insurance contributions for employees. It is also important to be aware of UK employment laws, including those related to minimum wage, discrimination, and health and safety.

FAQs on Company Registration in United Kingdom

Which is the best form of business to choose in the UK?

It depends on your business needs. A private limited company is most common for small to medium businesses, while a public limited company suits larger businesses. An LLP is ideal for professionals like lawyers or accountants.

How much is the fee to register a company in the UK?

The fee for incorporating a company in the United Kingdom depends on individual cases. When registering online, the cost is £12, while opting for postal applications results in a fee of £40.

How much time does it take to incorporate a company in the UK?

Online applications are usually processed within 24 hours. Postal applications can take 8-10 days. However, timescales can vary.