Launching a Global Business by Setting Up a Company in the United Kingdom

How to start a global business by setting up a company
in the United Kingdom?
The United Kingdom has long been renowned for its strong business reputation, thanks to its reliable legal system and transparent regulations. By establishing their company in the UK, entrepreneurs gain the opportunity to confidently conduct business in one of the most developed and dynamic markets in the world, using the English language.
Company Registration in the United Kingdom

Registering a company in the United Kingdom is a mandatory process for any entrepreneur wishing to conduct business in this country. It is worth noting that registering a company in the UK is significantly cheaper, easier, and faster than in some other European countries. Moreover, contrary to popular belief, company registration in the UK is available to founders with Russian passports.

What types of companies are most common in the UK?

Private Limited Company (Ltd): This is the most popular type of company in the UK. It is a separate legal entity, meaning the company's finances are separate from the personal finances of its owners. The liability of shareholders is limited to the amount unpaid on their shares.

Public Limited Company (PLC): A PLC can sell shares to the general public and be listed on a stock exchange. A minimum share capital of £50,000 is required, of which at least 25% must be paid up. The liability of shareholders is limited to the amount unpaid on their shares.

Limited Liability Partnership (LLP): This type of company combines elements of partnerships and companies. Partners in an LLP are not personally liable for business debts beyond the amount they have invested. It provides flexibility in management and is usually used by firms providing professional services.

Each type of company has its legal requirements, advantages, and disadvantages, and the choice depends on the specific needs and goals of the business.

Our clients moving to the UK on an Innovator Founder visa most frequently register Ltd companies.

The process of registering a company in the UK

Company registration costs £50, which can be paid by debit or credit card. The process usually takes 24 hours.

Choose a company type: Note that your choice may affect how you pay taxes and obtain financing.

Choose a company name:

  • Familiarise yourself with the rules for company names.
  • Check if your desired name is available.
  • Review existing trademarks.
Choose directors and a company secretary: A director is required, but a secretary is optional. Learn what directors are responsible for and who can be a director or secretary.

Determine shareholders or guarantors: At least one shareholder or guarantor is needed, who can also be a director. Identify persons with significant control (PSC) over your company.

Prepare the Memorandum and Articles of Association.

Check the reporting requirements: Detailed information is available here.

Complete the company registration process: Register the official company address and choose a SIC code that identifies the type of business activity your enterprise will undertake.

Register for Corporation Tax: Register with HMRC for Corporation Tax.

If you need professional help with company registration, you can always contact us.

Business Immigration to the United Kingdom

The main routes for business immigration to the UK include:

  • Innovator Founder route,
  • Global Talent route,
  • Self-Sponsorship Route.
The most popular among our clients remains the Innovator Founder visa. To obtain it, you need to go through the following stages:

Developing a business idea: Select a suitable idea, develop a business plan, conduct market research, and draw up a financial plan. It is recommended to allocate four to eight weeks for this process.

Obtaining endorsement for the business idea: Endorsement is requested from a special endorsing body approved by the Home Office. The process takes two to five weeks.

Submitting visa application documents: After receiving the endorsement, you can fill out the visa application. This takes one to two days. The application review period ranges from three to eight weeks.
Do you have any questions about business immigration, obtaining permanent residency, and UK citizenship?
Book a free consultation to get more information.