Open a UK Ltd Company as a Non-Resident
Get a fully compliant UK limited company with registered office and company secretary: even if you've never set foot in Britain.
Who this is for
- Freelancers and consultants invoicing UK or European clients
- E-commerce sellers wanting a reputable UK business address
- Entrepreneurs who need a UK entity for credibility and banking
- Non-residents who can't travel to Companies House in person
What's included
- Companies House registration (Ltd)
- 1-year registered office & mail forwarding
- Nominee company secretary service
- Certificate of Incorporation & Memorandum/Articles
- Dashboard tracking from submission to approval
How it works
Submit your details
Complete the intake form with director and share structure info.
We file with Companies House
Same-day submission for standard formation.
Company registered
Typically within 24–48 hours of filing.
Documents delivered
Incorporation pack in your dashboard, ready to open a bank account.
Tax treatment for non-residents
A UK Ltd company is subject to UK corporation tax (currently 19–25%) on its UK-sourced profits. Non-resident directors who are not UK tax residents do not automatically become UK tax residents simply by owning a UK company. However, if the company is managed and controlled from the UK, it will be treated as UK tax-resident. For non-residents operating their business from abroad, the UK company can often be structured so that management and control sits outside the UK. You should take independent advice from a UK international tax specialist to confirm your specific position.
Why non-residents choose this service
- Full UK Ltd formation without ever setting foot in the UK - 100% remote
- Non-UK nationals can be sole director and sole shareholder with no restrictions
- Registered office and company secretary included - two legal requirements for non-residents satisfied from day one
- UK bank account opening assistance available as an add-on once the company is formed
- Credible UK legal entity accepted by EU and US clients, platforms, and payment processors
Common questions from non-residents
Do I need to visit the UK to form or run my company?
No. The entire formation process is handled remotely. Companies House accepts online submissions and there is no requirement to be physically present in the UK to incorporate or to act as a director afterwards.
Can a non-UK citizen or resident be a director?
Yes. There is no nationality or residency requirement to be a director of a UK Ltd company. Your passport is sufficient identification.
Will my UK company make me a UK tax resident?
Owning or directing a UK Ltd does not automatically make you a UK tax resident. UK personal tax residency is determined by the statutory residence test, which considers the number of days you spend in the UK and other ties. Consult a UK tax specialist to confirm your position.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to visit the UK?
No. The entire process is handled remotely. You never need to be physically present in the UK.
Can a non-UK citizen be a director?
Yes. There is no nationality or residency requirement to be a director of a UK Ltd company.
What about VAT registration?
VAT registration is a separate step once your turnover threshold is reached. We can advise on timing.
What happens after the first year?
Your registered office and secretary service renews annually. We'll remind you 30 days in advance.
Is my company filing information public?
UK Ltd companies are on a public register. Director names and the registered address are visible.
Review before you continue
Check the listed scope, requirements, price note, and FAQs. Final decisions remain with the relevant bank, government authority, or institution.
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