Getting Started
How to Register a Limited Company in the UK
Complete step-by-step guide to forming your UK limited company, including choosing a name, directors, and shares.
By Free Business Registration Ltd · 1 min read
Registering a limited company in the UK is straightforward when you know the requirements. This guide covers everything from choosing your company name to submitting your application to Companies House.
Before You Start
- You need at least one director (must be 16 or older)
- You need at least one shareholder (can be the same person as the director)
- You need a registered office address in the UK
- You need to choose a unique company name
- Standard Industry Classification (SIC) code for your business activities
Choosing Your Company Name
- Must not be the same as an existing company name
- Cannot contain sensitive words without permission (e.g., "Royal", "Bank")
- Must end with "Limited" or "Ltd" (unless exempt)
- Cannot be offensive or suggest criminal activity
- Check the current Companies House company-name search before applying
Required Information
- Director details: Full name, date of birth, nationality, occupation
- Director address: Residential address and service address
- Shareholder details: Name and address, number and value of shares
- Company address: UK registered office address
- Share capital: Number of shares and their value
- Identity verification: Directors and PSCs must meet Companies House requirements and provide personal codes when required
Official guidance
This is general guidance. Check the current official rules and get advice for your circumstances before making tax, legal or financial decisions.