How to register a UK company as a non-UK resident
You do not need to live in the UK to register a limited company here. Here's everything you need to know - and how Quality Company Formations can help
- Can a Non-UK resident form a UK limited company?
- Our Non-Residents Package
- What you will need
- Identity Verification
- UK Registered Office Address
- Business Banking
- Annual filing obligations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can a Non-UK resident form a UK limited company?
Yes. Foreign nationals can own and manage a UK limited company entirely from their home country, without ever needing to visit the UK.
However, we are only able to support company formation orders for residents of certain countries. Before getting started, please check our eligibility list to confirm that our service is available in your country of residence:
Our Non-Residents Package
Our Non-Residents Packages are designed specifically for international entrepreneurs and includes everything you need to form and operate a UK limited company from abroad:
- Company formation with Companies House
- London Registered Office Address Service
- Identity verification support
- UK business banking referral to Wise
👉 View our Non-Residents Package
What you will need
To register a UK limited company, you will need the following:
- A unique company name that is not the same as or too similar to an existing name on the Companies House register
- At least one director (who can be a non-UK resident)
- At least one shareholder (who can also be the director)
- A UK registered office address — this is a legal requirement
Identity Verification
All new company directors and PSCs must verify their identity with Companies House before a company can be registered. Quality Company Formations can carry out identity verification on your behalf as part of the formation process.
UK Registered Office Address
Every UK limited company must have a physical registered office address in the UK. This address appears on the public register, and is where Companies House and HMRC will send official correspondence. Our Non-Residents Packages include a London-based registered office address to satisfy this requirement.
Business Banking
Opening a traditional UK bank account as a non-resident can be difficult, as many high street banks require in-person appointments. Our Non-Residents Packages include a referral Wise - a banking option that accepts overseas directors and can be set up entirely online.
Annual filing obligations
Once your company is registered, the same annual filing obligations apply as for any UK limited company, regardless of where you are based. These include:
- A confirmation statement filed with Companies House every 12 months
- Annual accounts filed with Companies House
- A Company Tax Return filed with HMRC (if the company is active)
- Corporation Tax registration within 3 months of starting business activity
💡 If you need help staying on top of your annual filings, we offer a range of compliance services which you can purchase via your Online Client Portal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a visa or UK citizenship to register a company?
No. Registering a UK limited company does not require a visa, UK citizenship, or residency.
Do I need to visit the UK?
No. The entire process can be completed online, including identity verification and company formation.
Am I guaranteed a bank account?
Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee that every customer will be able to open a bank account. While we can refer customers to Wise, all applications must be submitted directly through Wise and are subject to its own eligibility requirements and approval process.
Can I be the sole director and shareholder?
Yes. You can be the only director and the only shareholder of your company.
Not found what you're looking for?
Please get in touch and we'll be happy to help:
Email: You can submit a request using our contact form
Phone: 020 3908 0044
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