If you already have a business, expanding into the UK can bring new customers, partnerships and commercial opportunities. But B2B companies don’t just have to find an office and open shop when they enter a new market. A business should choose the appropriate structure and understand the registration and compliance requirements that apply to its circumstances.

Establish a Business Branch in the UK

Set up a Business Branch in the UK, while keeping your existing offshore company as the primary legal entity. A UK branch (or UK establishment) is not a separate legal entity from the overseas company. The parent business therefore remains responsible for the branch's obligations.

If an overseas company establishes a physical place of business or branch in the UK, it generally needs to register with Companies House. The registration uses form OS IN01 and must normally be completed within one month of opening the UK establishment.

Expand Your Business to UK With the Right Structure

Before you Expand Your Business to UK, consider whether a branch or a separate UK company better suits your plans. A branch means the overseas company has direct ownership and control, whereas a UK subsidiary can operate as a separate legal entity.

Companies House requires information such as the company name, registered office, directors, shareholders, people with significant control and the correct SIC code for businesses that choose to set up a new UK limited company. A UK registered office must be a physical address in the relevant part of the UK.

Registering a Company in the UK

Registering a Company in the UK as a private limited company can be completed through Companies House. The current online registration fee is £100, and companies normally receive a certificate of incorporation confirming their legal existence. Identity verification requirements also apply to relevant company officers.

Businesses should consider Corporation Tax responsibilities, accounting records, confirmation statements and VAT registration where applicable, after incorporation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Should I start a UK branch or set up a separate UK company?

It depends upon the nature of your business and expansion plans. In the former case, it will be considered an integral part of the overseas company, but in the latter, the UK company will have an independent identity altogether.

2. Can a foreign company set up a UK limited company?

Yes. A foreign company can set up a UK company, provided that all of the Companies House criteria for registration are met.

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