What Documents Are Required to Register a UK Company?

To register a UK limited company, you normally need to provide information about the company, its directors, shareholders and People with Significant Control (PSCs). You will also need to meet the current Companies House identity-verification requirements.

For a straightforward online incorporation, you may not need to upload a large collection of business documents.

What Information Is Required?

When registering a company, you will generally need:

• Proposed company name
• UK registered office address
• Registered email address
• Director details
• Shareholder details
• PSC details, where applicable
• SIC code describing the business activity
• Share structure and share capital information
• Identity-verification details

Do Directors Need Identification?

Yes. Directors must comply with the applicable Companies House identity-verification requirements.

Depending on the verification method, you may need an accepted identity document, such as a passport or driving licence.

Once verified, you receive a Companies House personal code that is used for relevant company filings.

What Company Formation Documents Are Created?

A company limited by shares requires constitutional and incorporation information, including:

Memorandum of Association — confirms the initial shareholders' intention to form the company.

Articles of Association — the rules governing how the company is operated.

Statement of Capital — provides information about the company's shares and shareholders.

If you register online using standard articles, much of this is handled as part of the incorporation process.

Do I Need Proof of Address?

Companies House requires address information for directors and the company.

Additional proof of address may be required during identity verification or when using third-party formation, banking or professional services.

What Do Non-UK Residents Need?

Overseas directors can register a UK company, but they must still provide the required identification and address information.

The director can live overseas, but the company must have an appropriate UK registered office address.

Are the Same Documents Needed for a Business Account?

No.

Company formation and opening a business account are separate processes.

A business account provider may request additional documents, such as:

• Certificate of incorporation
• Proof of identity
• Proof of residential address
• Company ownership information
• Business activity information
• Source of funds evidence

Requirements vary depending on the provider and the company's circumstances.

Final Answer

To register a UK company, you generally need director and shareholder information, a UK registered office, company ownership details, a SIC code, share information and the required identity verification.

For a straightforward online company formation, many of the necessary formation documents are created as part of the registration process.

Once incorporated, you receive a certificate of incorporation, confirming that the company legally exists.

‍