Registering a limited company in the UK is a process that can be completed entirely online, but it involves a number of steps and decisions worth understanding before you begin. Many founders rush through registration without fully considering the options available — from how to structure share capital to how to name the company — and some of those choices are more consequential than they first appear.
Limited companies are registered with Companies House, the official registrar. The process requires a company name, a registered office address, details of at least one director, and details of shareholders and their share allocation. You will also need to submit a memorandum and articles of association — the constitutional documents that govern how the company operates. Most straightforward formations can be completed online directly with Companies House or through a formation agent.
While the mechanics of registration are simple, the decisions made at formation — around share structure, director appointments, and articles of association — can be difficult to unwind later. Seeking brief professional input before registering, particularly if forming with co-founders or intending to raise investment, is time well spent. Our guide to registering a limited company walks through the process step by step.