3. Forming your company
Registering a company in the UK means applying to Companies House, which involves checking that your name is available, choosing a structure, and preparing key documents such as your memorandum and articles of association. Some founders trip up here: picking a name too similar to an existing company, choosing the wrong structure, or missing details on their application. Our resources walk you through each step, whether you're setting up a limited company or registering a business for the first time.
Articles & Guides
Our company formation guides cover every stage of registering a business, from choosing a structure to meeting Companies House requirements. You’ll find practical, expert-led advice to help you get it right the first time and avoid common mistakes.
What information do you need to register a UK company?
Find out the key details and documents you need to successfully register a company in the UK.
Written byNicholas Campion
8 minutes
How to search company name availability
Use our free company name checker below to check availability.
Written byNicholas Campion
8 minutes
How to set up a limited company in the UK
Learn how to set up a UK limited company, step by step, from registration and taxes to directors, shares, and costs.
Written byNicholas Campion
12 minutes
What are shareholders and shares in UK limited companies?
Learn what shareholders and shares are, how they work, and their roles in owning and running a UK company.
Written byNicholas Campion
7 minutes
What are the memorandum and articles of association?
Learn what the memorandum and articles of association are, and why they matter when setting up a UK company.
Written byNicholas Campion
7 minutes
The roles of company directors, company secretaries, and PSCs
Understand the main roles in a UK limited company, including duties and responsibilities of company directors, secretaries, and people of significant control.
Written byNicholas Campion
7 minutes
A guide to UK company formation for non-residents
Learn how non-residents can form a UK company – including structure options, legal obligations, tax compliance, and setup steps from abroad.
Written byNicholas Campion
10 minutes
What is a company registration number and where do I find it?
Learn what a company registration number is, where to find it, and how it differs from your VAT registration number and Unique Taxpayer Reference.
Written byGraeme Donnelly
6 minutes
What is a SIC code and how do I change it?
Learn what a SIC code is, why you need one to form a UK company, and how to change your SIC code.
Written byNicholas Campion
7 minutes
All Categories
These resources are Category 3 of 6 in the Resource Hub. Explore the rest of the journey, from forming your company to running it day to day.
Watch helpful videos on startup advice
How do I register a company in the UK
How to start a company in the UK
Company formation: what you need to know
Why partner with a company formation agent
We help entrepreneurs make smarter decisions. Our business solutions and services provide clear support, so you can build your company with confidence. Our All Inclusive with Accounting Package has everything your business needs to start strong:
- Company formation
- Covent Garden registered office
- VAT registration
- Your own company secretary
- Ongoing accounting support to keep you compliant from day one
Things to consider when forming your company
- Check your company name is available and compliant
- Decide on your company structure and share allocation
- Choose a registered office address
- Identify your directors, shareholders, and any PSCs
- Prepare your memorandum and articles of association
- Choose the correct SIC code for your business activity
- Submit your application to Companies House
- Set up a business bank account once incorporated
Our founder’s startup story
Learn more about Graeme Donnelly, CEO and founder of 1st Formations, and how his entrepreneurial journey began.
Read Graeme’s StoryExplore useful articles from our blog on forming your company
How to register a company in 4 simple steps with 1st Formations
To register a company in the UK, follow these four steps: choose a unique company name, select a registration package, complete the online application with your company details, and submit your application. The process typically takes just a few hours, and you can register as a private company limited by shares with minimal requirements.
Do you need to register a business?
You need to register your business if your income exceeds £1,000 per year for tax purposes. Sole traders and limited companies are common structures to register in the UK, with registration becoming mandatory once you surpass this income threshold.
Everything was just really straightforward, they were really helpful, and there was always somebody available if you needed to speak to them.
Natalie Opara, Opretty
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to form a limited company?
Most companies are formed within 24 hours when registering online, though it can take longer if Companies House needs to query any of the details submitted.
Do I need a registered office address?
Yes, every UK limited company must have a registered office address in the UK, which appears on the public register and is used for official correspondence.
Can I register a company if I live outside the UK?
Yes, non-residents can register a UK company, though there are a few extra considerations around banking and registered addresses. Check out our guide to UK company formation for non-residents.