Setting up a limited company in the UK is a straightforward process that can be completed online. Even first-time business owners and overseas entrepreneurs can register a company efficiently without the need for extensive paperwork or complex legal procedures, thanks to the Companies House online system and professional support services.
A limited company gives your business a more credible and professional image, protects your personal assets through limited liability, and allows you to operate in one of the world’s most stable business environments. Whether you are starting a new venture or expanding into the UK, understanding the correct process from the beginning helps you avoid delays and unnecessary mistakes.
This 2026 guide explains how to set up a limited company online in the UK, including the key documents, typical costs, and basic compliance requirements, so you know exactly what to expect.
What is a Limited Company in the UK?
A limited company is a business that is legally separate from its owners and managers. It can own property, sign contracts, and trade in its own name, even if the owners or shareholders change.
Because the company has its own legal identity, it is responsible for its own debts and obligations, thereby protecting the personal finances of the owners.
Key features of a UK limited company include:
- Limited personal liability for shareholders
- A separate legal identity from its owners
- Greater business credibility with clients and banks
- Better tax planning opportunities
There are two main types of limited companies in the UK:
- Private limited company (Ltd) – most common for small and medium businesses
- Public limited company (PLC) – used by larger businesses
Why Should You Set Up a Limited Company Online in the UK?
Online company registration is the fastest and most affordable way to form a business in the UK.
Main advantages of online UK company formation include:
- Lower Companies House filing fee
- Faster approval, usually within 24 hours
- No physical paperwork
- Easy online updates and filings
Using a professional provider such as 3E Accounting Services also ensures:
- Correct document preparation
- Registered office address support
- Ongoing compliance assistance
What Documents Are Needed to Register a UK Limited Company?
To register a limited company online, you will need to prepare the following details and documents.
Basic requirements include:
- Director and shareholder personal details
- A UK registered office address
- Business activity (SIC code)
- Articles of Association
Required Details for UK Company Registration
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Director details | Full name, residential address, date of birth, nationality |
| Shareholder details | Full name, address, and number of shares held |
| Registered office address | Official UK address for statutory letters and notices |
| SIC code | Code that defines the nature of the business activity |
| Articles of Association | Legal rules governing the company’s operations and structure |
How Do You Choose a Company Name for UK Company Registration?
Your company name must meet Companies House rules.
The name must:
- Be unique
- Not be misleading
- Does not contain restricted words without approval
You can check availability on the official website: https://www.gov.uk/check-company-name
Helpful tips when choosing a name:
- Avoid names too similar to existing companies
- Choose a name that reflects your business activity
- Keep it simple and professional
How Do You Register a Limited Company Online with Companies House?
This is the formal legal step that establishes your company and registers it with Companies House. Once this is completed and approved, your business legally exists.
Step-by-step process:
- Complete the online company registration form
Fill in the Companies House online application with your proposed company name, registered office address, and business activity. - Enter and check all company, director, and shareholder details
Provide accurate details for all directors and shareholders, confirm the Articles of Association, and select the correct SIC code. Review everything carefully before submitting. - Pay the Companies House registration fee
Pay the £12 online filing fee and submit your application. Most registrations are approved within 24 hours, after which you will receive your Certificate of Incorporation confirming your company is officially registered.
Official registration link: https://www.gov.uk/register-a-company-online
Filing fee:
£12 for standard online registration
Processing time:
Most applications are approved within 24 hours
Many entrepreneurs choose 3E Accounting Services to:
- Make sure all details are submitted the first time correctly
- Avoid unnecessary delays or rejected applications
- Receive clear and practical guidance throughout the process.
How Do You Set Up a Business Bank Account for a UK Limited Company?
Once your company is registered, the next important step is to open a business bank account in the company’s own name. This keeps your business finances separate from your personal money and makes accounting and tax reporting much easier.
Certificate of Incorporation
This proves that your company is legally registered with Companies House.
Memorandum and Articles of Association
These show how the company is structured and how decisions are made.
Director’s identification
Banks will ask for proof of identity and address for each director, usually a passport and a recent utility bill or bank statement.
What Happens After UK Company Incorporation?
Once your company is registered, you will receive:
- Certificate of Incorporation
This confirms that your company has been legally formed and is officially recognised by Companies House. - Company registration number
This is your company’s unique reference number and must be quoted on all statutory documents and filings. - Confirmation Statement due date
This tells you when your next annual update to Companies House is due, so your company records remain accurate.
You must then:
- Register for Corporation Tax
You must notify HMRC within three months of starting to trade so your company can file tax returns correctly. - Open a business bank account
A company account allows you to receive payments, pay suppliers, and keep business finances separate from personal funds. - Start bookkeeping records
Record every transaction from the start to keep clear accounts and meet future reporting and tax obligations.
Corporation Tax registration link: https://www.gov.uk/register-for-corporation-tax
What Are the Ongoing Compliance Requirements for a UK Limited Company?
Every UK limited company has ongoing legal duties to keep its records up to date and remain in good standing with the authorities. These requirements apply each year, even if the company has not traded.
Key obligations include:
- Filing a Confirmation Statement with Companies House
This yearly filing confirms that your company’s directors, shareholders, registered address, and share structure are correct and up to date. - Submitting annual accounts
You must prepare and file statutory accounts showing your company’s financial position, including income, expenses, and profits for the year. - Filing Corporation Tax returns to HMRC
Each year you must report your company’s taxable profits to HMRC and pay any Corporation Tax due within the required deadlines.
Table: Key UK Compliance Deadlines
| Compliance Item | Filing Authority | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Confirmation Statement | Companies House | Annual |
| Statutory Accounts | Companies House | Annual |
| Corporation Tax Return | HMRC | Annual |
Conclusion
Setting up a limited company online in the UK is straightforward when you follow the correct steps and prepare the required documents. With online registration through Companies House, most companies can be incorporated within one working day.
A limited company structure gives your business professional credibility, legal protection, and long-term growth potential. For entrepreneurs who want peace of mind, expert support can make the entire process faster and more reliable.
Ready to set up your UK limited company online? Speak to 3E Accounting Services today for fast, compliant, and hassle-free company formation support.
Ready to Register a Limited Company Online in the UK?
Get professional help to register your UK limited company online quickly, legally, and with full compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, a foreigner can set up a limited company in the UK. There is no residency or nationality requirement for UK company directors or shareholders.
Yes, one person can act as both the director and shareholder when forming a UK limited company.
Yes, online company registration through the Companies House website is fully legal and is the most commonly used method of UK company formation.
A SIC code describes your business activity and must be selected when registering a limited company with Companies House.
Online UK company registration usually takes 24 hours after submission to Companies House, although some applications may take slightly longer if further checks are required.
A UK limited company must file annual accounts, a Confirmation Statement, and a Corporation Tax return each year to remain compliant.
Abigail Yu
Author
Abigail Yu oversees executive leadership at 3E Accounting Group, leading operations, IT solutions, public relations, and digital marketing to drive business success. She holds an honors degree in Communication and New Media from the National University of Singapore and is highly skilled in crisis management, financial communication, and corporate communications.
