Starting a company in the United Kingdom is one of the smartest moves an international entrepreneur can make in 2025. The UK offers a strong legal system, business-friendly tax policies, global market access, and a stable financial environment — making it a top choice for founders worldwide.
Whether you’re expanding your current business or launching a new venture, setting up in the UK can unlock new opportunities for any international entrepreneur. The good news? You don’t need to live in the UK or be a British citizen to register your business here.
This guide will walk you through the full process of starting a UK company as a non-resident, step by step.
Why International Entrepreneurs Choose the UK
There are many reasons why entrepreneurs from across the globe choose to start companies in the UK. Here are the most important ones:
Business-Friendly Laws
The UK has one of the simplest and most efficient legal systems for business formation. You can incorporate a company in as little as 24 hours — sometimes even faster.
100% Foreign Ownership Allowed
You don’t need a UK-based partner or director. As a foreign national, you can own and run a UK company entirely on your own.
Attractive Tax System
The UK offers fair corporate tax rates, with various tax benefits and incentives for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). With proper planning, you can reduce your tax burden legally and effectively.
International Credibility
A UK-registered business brings prestige and global trust. It makes it easier to do business with international clients, open bank accounts, and access financing.
Types of Companies You Can Register
The most common structure for international entrepreneurs is a Private Limited Company (Ltd). Here’s why:
Other options include Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs) and Branch Offices, but Ltd is usually the best fit for global founders.
What You Need to Register a UK Company
To register a UK company successfully, you’ll need the following:
A Unique Company Name
Your company name must be unique and not too similar to an existing UK business. It must also meet legal name guidelines (no offensive words or restricted terms).
A UK Registered Office Address
Every UK company must have a physical address in the UK where official government letters can be sent. If you’re based overseas, you can use a virtual office address, which MCKALLEN provides as part of our setup services.
A Director
At least one director is required. This person must be at least 16 years old and not disqualified from acting as a director. You, as the founder, can take this role — no UK residency required.
Shareholders and Share Capital
You’ll need to issue at least one share and name at least one shareholder (which can be you). This shows who owns the company. You can issue more shares if you have partners or investors.
Company SIC Code
This code identifies what type of business your company will do (e.g., consulting, software development, trading). It’s part of the official registration process.
Documents Required
You’ll need:
At MCKALLEN, we help you collect and prepare these documents to ensure everything is submitted correctly the first time.
Step-by-Step Process to Register Your Company
Step 1: Choose Your Company Name and Structure
Decide if you want a Private Limited Company or another structure. Choose a name that’s available and fits your brand.
Step 2: Arrange a UK Registered Address
Use your own UK address or opt for a virtual office solution through MCKALLEN.
Step 3: Submit Documents
You’ll fill out basic forms and submit ID documents. Our team helps ensure accuracy and compliance.
Step 4: Company Is Registered
Companies House (the UK’s registrar) will approve your registration. In most cases, you’ll get your certificate of incorporation within 24 hours.
Step 5: Open a Business Bank Account
This step can be tricky for international founders, but MCKALLEN simplifies the process by helping you apply for remote UK bank accounts.
Step 6: Start Trading
Once registered and banked, you’re ready to do business in the UK — invoice clients, accept payments, and grow.
Opening a UK Business Bank Account
One of the most common challenges for foreign entrepreneurs is opening a UK business bank account. Many traditional banks require in-person visits, UK proof of address, or long review processes.
MCKALLEN works with modern banking partners who offer remote business banking solutions — including virtual IBANs, GBP and EUR accounts, and online onboarding.
You can start trading within days, without setting foot in the UK.
Managing Taxes and Compliance
Running a UK company means staying compliant with UK rules. Here’s what you’ll need to do after your company is formed:
MCKALLEN offers full compliance packages, so you don’t need to worry about missing deadlines or handling complex paperwork.
How MCKALLEN Supports You
We help international entrepreneurs at every stage:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I register a UK company if I don’t live in the UK?
Yes. You do not need to be in the UK or be a UK resident. Everything can be done online.
How long does the process take?
With expert help, you can register your company in 1–2 business days.
Is there a minimum capital requirement?
No. You can register a company with just £1 in share capital.
Can I open a UK bank account from abroad?
Yes. MCKALLEN helps international founders access virtual or remote bank accounts without needing a UK visit.
Will I need to pay taxes in the UK?
Your company will need to pay UK corporate tax if it earns income in the UK. We help you manage tax planning and filings.
Conclusion
The UK continues to be one of the best places in the world to start a business — especially for international entrepreneurs. The registration process is simple, the legal system is clear, and the opportunities are global.
Whether you want to launch a consulting agency, tech startup, e-commerce platform, or investment firm, a UK company gives you credibility and access to serious business networks.
MCKALLEN has helped hundreds of founders around the world start UK companies with zero stress. We take care of everything, from paperwork to bank accounts to compliance.
👉 Ready to start your UK company? Contact MCKALLEN today.
