The United Kingdom is one of the world’s most attractive destinations for entrepreneurs and international investors looking to start or expand a business. With a transparent legal system, business-friendly policies, and global credibility, registering a business in the UK as a foreigner is both legal and accessible – even if you don’t live in the UK or hold a UK visa.
At Fraser Bond, we support non-UK nationals with company formation, tax compliance, and cross-border structuring. Whether you’re launching a startup, acquiring property, or entering the UK market, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Yes. There are no nationality or residency restrictions on registering a business in the UK. Foreign individuals and companies can fully own and manage UK-registered businesses, provided they comply with legal and tax requirements.
This includes:
Private Limited Companies (Ltd)
Limited Liability Partnerships (LLP)
Sole trader structures (if you plan to live and work in the UK)
UK branches of overseas companies
The most common and versatile structure for foreigners is the Private Limited Company (Ltd).
Why choose a Ltd company?
Limited liability
100% foreign ownership allowed
Separate legal identity
Credibility with banks and customers
Taxed on UK profits at 25% (as of 2025)
Other structures include:
LLP – Flexible for partnerships and international advisory firms
Branch of an overseas company – Not a separate legal entity
Holding company or SPV – For property and asset protection
Check name availability via Companies House (UK’s company registrar). Avoid restricted or trademarked names.
Every UK company must have a registered office address within the UK. This can be:
A physical business address
A registered office service provider (Fraser Bond offers this service)
This is where official mail and legal notices will be sent.
You need at least one director (can be a foreign national)
There is no requirement for UK citizenship or residency
Shareholders can be individuals or companies
Fraser Bond helps set up UK companies with nominee or international shareholders where required.
Most companies issue ordinary shares
No minimum capital is required (many start with £100)
Ownership can be 100% held by non-UK residents or foreign entities
You can register your company online through:
Companies House (gov.uk)
Or a professional agent such as Fraser Bond (ideal for international clients)
Required information:
Company name
Registered office address
Director and shareholder details
SIC code (business activity)
Share capital structure
PSC (People with Significant Control) details
Once submitted, you’ll receive a Certificate of Incorporation (typically within 24–48 hours).
Opening a UK bank account as a non-resident may require:
Certified ID and address documents
Proof of business activities
UK tax registration
Fraser Bond introduces clients to UK-based banks and international banking solutions (including fintech and offshore providers).
Depending on your business activities, you may need to register for:
Corporation Tax (mandatory)
VAT (if turnover exceeds £90,000 or by choice)
PAYE (if hiring employees)
Self-assessment (if receiving UK income personally)
We assist with HMRC registration and ongoing compliance.
After registration, all UK businesses must:
File annual confirmation statements
Submit annual accounts
Maintain PSC (beneficial ownership) records
Stay compliant with AML and Know-Your-Client (KYC) rules
If purchasing UK property through your company, you must register on the Register of Overseas Entities with Companies House.
Fraser Bond provides full support for international entrepreneurs and companies forming UK businesses:
