The UK is one of the easiest places in the world to start a company — and you don’t need to live there to do it. A UK limited company (Ltd) is respected globally, tax-efficient, and can usually be registered with Companies House in about 24 hours. Here’s how non-residents do it in 2026.
Why non-residents choose a UK Ltd
- A trusted, recognised company type for international clients and payment providers.
- 100% foreign ownership — no UK partner or director required.
- Fast, fully online registration.
- Limited liability that protects your personal assets.
What you need
To form a UK Ltd as a non-resident, you’ll need:
- A company name that’s available at Companies House.
- At least one director and one shareholder (can be the same person, and can be you from abroad).
- A UK registered office address — this is public and required. We provide one if you don’t have a UK address.
- A SIC code describing your business activity.
- ID and proof of address for directors and shareholders.
The steps
- 1. Submit your details — name, directors, shareholders and registered office (a 5-minute form).
- 2. File with Companies House — we check and submit electronically.
- 3. Approval (~24h) — Companies House reviews and usually approves within one working day.
- 4. Receive your documents — Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum & Articles and your company number.
- 5. Bank & VAT — open a UK business account and register for VAT/PAYE if needed.
A director service address keeps your home address off the public register — worth adding for privacy.
Tax & ongoing compliance
A UK company files an annual Confirmation Statement, annual accounts, and a Corporation Tax return. If your turnover crosses the VAT threshold (or you choose to register voluntarily), you’ll file VAT returns too. We can set up VAT and PAYE for you.
Form your UK company in ~24 hours
Code Craft registers UK Limited Companies and LLPs from £39 + Companies House fee — registered office, director service address, VAT and bank setup available, for residents and non-residents.
Register in the UK →Frequently asked questions
Do I need to visit the UK?
No — the entire process is online and remote.
Can I open a UK bank account from abroad?
Yes, with the right fintech or business banking provider; we point you to options that accept non-residents.
How fast can I start trading?
Often the next day, once your Certificate of Incorporation is issued.