Company Formation in the UK

 

In today’s uncertain economic conditions the UK still has a world class reputation for being the European business hub as well as a gateway to exploring the US markets. The UK’s sound economic policy has led to small and medium sized businesses in the UK experiencing stability compared to most of the other European countries. The UK is one of the easiest places to do business in the world and UK Limited companies have an international reputation second to none.

The UK offers one of the lowest Corporation Tax rates in Europe, allowing start-up companies to retain most of their profits to reinvest in the business. There are no restrictions on UK companies paying dividends to shareholders abroad.

 

Some Advantages of English Companies

• You do not need to be a UK citizen or a UK resident to incorporate
• You do not need to visit the UK to incorporate the company
• Only one person is required to incorporate a new Ltd company
• A UK company can be incorporated even though it does not trade in the UK

 

We provide services in establishing three types of companies:

 

1. Private Limited Company – Ltd

Key advantages of Ltd companies are the following:

• Owned by shareholders who, in the event of the business failing, are protected by the limited liability
• Personal assets of directors and shareholders cannot be used to pay off company debts
• A limited company will continue to trade irrespective of changes in directors, secretary, management and or ownership
• The company is entitled to take legal actions in its own name (as opposed to the name of its owners)
• The company may enter into legal contracts and own property

 

2. Limited Liability Partnership – LLP

A limited liability partnership is a new form of legal business entity with limited liability. The main features of limited liability partnerships are that they have organisational flexibility but are taxed as partnerships. In many other respects they are very similar to companies. The Limited Liability Partnership Act 2000 generally allows two or more persons carrying on a lawful business with a view to profit to form a limited liability partnership.

 

3. Public Limited Company – PLC

There is substantial prestige in having PLC at the end of your company name, and if you require this, we can incorporate a public limited company for you. The primary difference between Public Limited Company (PLC) and a Private Limited Company (Ltd) is the Public Company’s shares may be offered for sale to the general public.

With a PLC, there are capital requirements to adhere to and two directors are required. If necessary, we can tailor the company’s main objects to suit specific requirements. A PLC must have a capital of £50,000 and at least 25% (£12,500) of this minimum value must be fully paid before the Registrar of Companies can issue a certificate for Commencement of Trading. This certificate must be issued before the company commences any business transactions.

A PLC status can be valuable if the company:

– Is to trade its shares to the public
– Can undertake any nature of business
– Can operate anywhere in the world