Can I register a company in another country from the UK?

Often, yes: many countries let non-residents own a company outright, though some need a local director, a local address, a notary or a residence permit. Each country's guide has a "Setting up from abroad" section.

Do I need a lawyer or an accountant?

Not always. In the UK and several other countries you can register online in a day yourself. Where a notary, a local director or a licence is required, a local agent saves time. Each guide gives a budget for doing it yourself, with an agent, and with full service.

What does the budget include?

The official registration fees, plus typical agent, notary or lawyer costs for the higher levels. It does not include share capital you must pay in, office rent, licences for regulated trades or tax.

Where does the information come from?

Each guide was checked against the country's official registry and government pages on the date shown, and lists its sources.

FOR FOUNDERS / START A COMPANY

How to start a company

Step-by-step guides to registering a business in the UK and 40 other countries: every common kind of company, what you need, the official fees and what it costs to do it yourself, with an agent or with full service.

Start in the UK What fits my budget?

UNITED KINGDOM

Starting in the UK

FROM £100
Private company limited by shares
Most trading businesses and start-ups that want limited liability, credibility and the option to bring in shareholders.
FROM £0
Sole trader
Freelancers, tradespeople and side businesses with low risk, few overheads and a wish for minimum admin.
FROM £124
Limited liability partnership
Professional firms and partnerships running a for-profit business that want limited liability and partnership-style tax.
FROM £115
Community interest company
Social enterprises that trade for community benefit and want a recognised, asset-locked limited company.

All 11 UK structures compared →Which one suits me? →Check a company name →

BUDGET

What can you set up on your budget?

56 ways to set up under £2,000 (a local accountant or formation agent does the filings)

Pound amounts are rough: local fees converted at HMRC's monthly rates, and typical agent and lawyer prices. Share capital is not included.

COUNTRIES

40 countries, step by step

Europe

Americas

Asia-Pacific

Middle East

Africa

Once you are registered

New UK companies appear on Company Signal the day after they register. Find investors, grants and loans and where the offices are near you, and claim your company's page to tell people what you do.

QUESTIONS

Common questions

Can I register a company in another country from the UK?: Often, yes: many countries let non-residents own a company outright, though some need a local director, a local address, a notary or a residence permit. Each country's guide has a "Setting up from abroad" section.
Do I need a lawyer or an accountant?: Not always. In the UK and several other countries you can register online in a day yourself. Where a notary, a local director or a licence is required, a local agent saves time. Each guide gives a budget for doing it yourself, with an agent, and with full service.
What does the budget include?: The official registration fees, plus typical agent, notary or lawyer costs for the higher levels. It does not include share capital you must pay in, office rent, licences for regulated trades or tax.
Where does the information come from?: Each guide was checked against the country's official registry and government pages on the date shown, and lists its sources.

This guide is general information to help you plan, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Fees, forms and rules change: check the official registry before you file, and take professional advice for anything complex. Agent and lawyer costs are typical market prices, not quotes.