How to Form a UK Private Limited Company (Ltd) (2026 Guide)
Everything non-residents need to register a Private Limited Company (Ltd) with Companies House: fees, timeline, ownership rules, taxes, and the full formation process. 100% remote.
To form a UK Private Limited Company (Ltd), register with Companies House (fee: £50 (standard) or £78 (same-day)) with a compliant registered office, minimum £1 (one share of any value) capital, and formation documents. 100% foreign ownership permitted. No residency requirement for directors or shareholders. Processing takes 24 hours online, 8 to 10 days by post.
£50 (standard) or £78 (same-day)
24 hours online, 8 to 10 days by post
£34 confirmation statement plus statutory accounts filing
100% foreign ownership permitted
Corporate Tax
19% corporation tax on profits up to £50,000, 25% above £250,000, with marginal relief between. VAT registration required over £90,000 turnover.
VAT / GST
VAT at 20% standard rate. Registration mandatory over £90,000 annual turnover, voluntary below.
Why form a Private Limited Company (Ltd)
- Formation completed in 24 hours through Companies House online service
- No minimum capital requirement, one £1 share is sufficient
- No residency requirement for directors, shareholders, or Persons with Significant Control
Watch outs
- Full annual accounts and confirmation statement filing required with penalties from £150 for late filing
- Persons with Significant Control (PSC) register is public, exposing beneficial ownership
Best for
Frequently Asked Questions
Other United Kingdom entity options
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