How long does it take to open a new company in the UK?

Opening a new company limited by shares in the UK?

You're probably wondering, how long does it take to get it done?

The good news is that Companies House approves most UK company formations within 24 hours, sometimes even faster, depending on their workload. However, this timeline depends on how quickly you complete our online form, including identity verification and submitting accurate business details.

What affects how fast your UK company is registered?

Although it’s technically possible to register a new company in the UK in under 6 hours, several factors can influence the actual timeline. Even with a streamlined formation platform, delays can occur if information is incomplete or identity checks are not verified on time.

Here are the most common factors that affect how quickly your limited company can be registered in the UK:

• Completeness of your application: Missing, inaccurate, or inconsistent company, director or shareholder details can prevent your application from being submitted to Companies House without delay.
• Delay in filling AML checks: Anti-Money Laundering (AML) verification is required for all company officers. If these checks are not completed quickly, your application cannot proceed.
• Registered office address: You must have a valid UK-registered address before submitting your application. Delays can occur if this information is missing or incorrect.
• Company name availability: A name may appear available, but in some cases, supporting documentation is required to approve it. If you’re unable to provide these documents promptly, your application will be held.
• Response time to follow-up requests: After you submit your application, our customer service team may contact you for additional information. Delayed responses to these emails can slow down the process.

With the right preparation, most companies can be incorporated swiftly, sometimes even within the same business day.

How long does it take to register a company online?

As mentioned earlier, the entire company formation process can often be completed within one business day, provided everything is in order. Below is a breakdown of each step that affects how quickly your new UK company can be incorporated.

How fast will the company registration process take once submitted to Companies House?

Once your application is submitted to Companies House, the registration process is typically very fast, often completed within 3 to 5 working hours, provided the submission occurs during UK business hours. This speed is one of the key reasons entrepreneurs prefer forming their companies online rather than relying on manual or paper-based methods.

However, delays can and do occur. For example:

• Companies House may experience high workloads, especially during peak filing periods.
• If your application contains errors or triggers flags during compliance review, it may be paused until corrections are made./li>
• These extended reviews can create a backlog, causing delays that spill over to other company registration applications waiting in the queue, even if those submissions are accurate and complete.
• Under the new powers granted by the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA), Companies House may take additional time to review company names and check for compliance with the updated naming rules and identity verification protocols.

What steps can speed up the formation of your company?

If you're eager to open a new company quickly, some preparation can make a big difference.

Here are some practical steps to help your company formation and registration process move as efficiently as possible:

• Choose a company name that is available for registration: Run a name search early and review the official company name requirements. If your chosen name contains restricted words or is too similar to an existing company, obtain the necessary approvals to avoid delays or rejections from Companies House.
• Prepare all required documents and company official details in advance: Before starting your application, ensure you have the necessary information, including director details, shareholder information, a valid ID, and address. If you plan to use our registered office or director address services, you don’t need to prepare those separately—simply add them to your cart during checkout.
• Use your company formation’s online platform: Our platform guides you through each step and flags any errors in real time, allowing you to correct them before submission. This reduces the chances of rejection or follow-up requests that could slow down your application.
• Complete AML and ID checks promptly: Anti-Money Laundering (AML) checks are mandatory. Please be readily available to respond to verification emails quickly and upload your identity documents as soon as possible.

Do non-residents face any extra delays during the company formation process?

If you're a non‑UK resident looking to register a company in the UK, you might be wondering whether you’ll face additional hurdles or longer wait times. The short answer is—no.

Our team is experienced in helping overseas clients navigate the company formation process smoothly and without unnecessary delays.

With clear guidance and real-time support, we ensure that every non-UK company director understands what’s required to meet UK government standards and successfully form their company.

Here’s how YCF makes the process fast and simple for international applicants:

• Step-by-step assistance with AML ID checks for foreign directors and shareholders
• We provide a professional central London address for use as your registered office address or director service address
• Our customer service team helps with the required company documents to meet UK registration rules
• Easy access to free business bank account options with partner providers
• Full guidance on submitting details to Companies House authorised channels

What happens after my limited company in the UK is registered?

Once your new business is officially registered with Companies House, you’ll receive your company registration number (crn number) and incorporation documents, marking the official start of your business journey — but registration is only the beginning.

With these documents, you can open a business bank account. We partner with trusted banking providers that support UK residents and non-residents, including options that do not require proof of address for non-UK applicants.

Since your company is a separate legal entity, the director must decide how to draw income. If you intend to pay yourself as a director, or pay employees or additional directors, you must register for PAYE with HMRC. If your business meets the threshold or you want to reclaim input tax, you can also choose to register for VAT.

Finally, staying compliant with UK company law is essential. You’ll need to submit Confirmation Statements, maintain company records, and meet ongoing filing requirements. Our company secretarial services can manage this for you, helping you stay compliant while you focus on growing your business.