Last Updated on October 21, 2026 by ThriveOnz360 Editorial
The steps in the order you do them, what you can do yourself, and when a formation agent is worth it. Written for founders based abroad as well as in the UK.
Fees checked against gov.uk on 17 October 2026. General information, not professional advice.
Register it yourself if
- You are happy to work through the online forms and keep your own records
- You have a UK registered office address and the details of every director and shareholder ready
- You want to pay only the official fee
Use a formation agent if
- You want someone to handle the filings, the registered address and the reminders after incorporation
- You are abroad and unsure which documents and addresses you need
- You want your company set up and administered in one place
What Companies House charges
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Online incorporation | £100 |
| Same-day online incorporation | £156 |
| Confirmation statement (online) | £50 each year |
Source: gov.uk Companies House fees, checked 17 October 2026. Fees change, so confirm on gov.uk before you pay. An agent adds its own fee on top.
Six steps, in order
- Choose a company name and check it is available on Companies House.
- Pick your SIC code (the type of business activity) and decide who the directors and shareholders are.
- Arrange a UK registered office address. It must be a real address where official post can be delivered, not a PO box.
- Check who counts as a person with significant control (PSC) and have their details ready.
- Incorporate online with Companies House, or through an agent. Each director also needs identity verification.
- After incorporation: register for Corporation Tax with HMRC, open a business bank account, and diarise your confirmation statement and annual accounts.
Mistakes to avoid
- Using a PO box as the registered office
- Forgetting to register for Corporation Tax with HMRC
- Missing the confirmation statement or annual accounts dates
- Leaving director identity verification to the last minute
FAQs
Can I register a UK company if I live abroad?
Yes. A director does not need to live in the UK, but the company needs a UK registered office. Our identity verification guide covers the director checks.
How long does it take?
Online incorporation is quick once your details are ready. Companies House offers a faster same-day service for a higher fee.
Do I need an agent?
No. An agent saves time and keeps the filings in one place. See our 1st Formations guide for one UK option.
Not sure which route fits you?
Tell us your situation1st Formations guide
Official fees: Companies House fees (gov.uk). A person replies within 48 hours. The 1st Formations link is an affiliate link: we may receive a referral reward. General information, not legal or tax advice.
Published by ThriveOnz Group UK Ltd, a company registered in England and Wales. Some links on this site are affiliate links and are always disclosed. General information, not legal, tax or financial advice. See our Editorial Standards.