How to start a company in United Kingdom

Last checked: November 2026 · Currency: GBP

The UK is one of the fastest and cheapest places to start a company: you register a private limited company (Ltd) online with Companies House, usually within 24 hours, and no minimum capital is required. Directors must now verify their identity first. Generous investor tax reliefs (SEIS/EIS) and the EMI share-option scheme make an Ltd the standard choice for startups.

General information, not legal or tax advice. Rules and fees change; always check the official source.

Read the full guide with a free accountAll guides and country guides are free for Foundmates members. It takes 2 minutes, with Google or email and no password.