How to Register a UK Company from the US: The Ultimate 2025 Guide

If you’re an American entrepreneur, freelancer, or e-commerce seller looking to expand internationally, forming a UK Limited Company is one of the smartest strategic moves you can make in 2025.

A UK Ltd gives you instant credibility with European clients, global payment processors, and international partners. It unlocks access to British banking infrastructure and financial tools, and protects you legally with limited liability status. Best of all? You don’t need to live in the UK or visit the country to register a company.

With the help of trusted formation agents like IncorpUK, you can launch your UK company from anywhere in the US—in under 24 hours.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to register a UK company from the United States in 2025:

• Legal requirements and regulatory updates
• Step-by-step setup instructions
• Banking solutions for US-based founders
• UK tax rules and compliance essentials
• Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Whether you're in New York, Los Angeles, Austin, or Miami—this guide is for you.

1. Why Americans Are Forming UK Companies in 2025

• Global legitimacy: A UK Ltd is recognized as a trustworthy structure by clients, suppliers, and platforms worldwide.
• Zero residency restrictions: You don’t need UK citizenship, a visa, or a UK address to form a company.
• Speed: You can incorporate online in less than 24 hours.
• Fintech access: UK bank details and multi-currency accounts available via EMI services.
• Affordable: Packages from IncorpUK start under $200 USD.

2. UK Company Requirements for US Founders

3. What’s New in 2025? (Regulatory Highlights)

Identity Verification (ECCTA Reform)

Effective from autumn 2025, every director and PSC must pass ID verification using:

• The UK’s One-Login system, or
• An authorized formation agent like IncorpUK who can verify your ID during onboarding.

Recommendation: Let IncorpUK handle verification to avoid technical glitches or rejected submissions.

Registered Office Rules

PO boxes are no longer accepted. However, IncorpUK provides legal, prestigious UK addresses for your company—ideal for US-based founders.

4. The 7-Step Process to Register from the US

Step 1: Choose a Company Name

Use IncorpUK’s free Company Name Search Tool to check name availability instantly.

Step 2: Select a Registered Address Package

IncorpUK provides a registered office, service address, and business address—all included in their non-resident bundles.

Step 3: Gather Your Details

Have the following ready:

• Full legal name
• US residential address
• Passport or driver's license
• Email + phone number
• Shareholding structure

Step 4: Complete ID Verification

Avoid GOV.UK headaches. IncorpUK offers seamless onboarding and ID checks using your mobile camera and documents.

Step 5: Submit Incorporation (No IN01 Form Needed)

Rather than file manually with Companies House, let IncorpUK submit your application electronically with all documentation handled for you.

Step 6: Get Your Certificate of Incorporation

Issued within 1 working day—includes your Company Registration Number (CRN).

Step 7: Open a UK-Compatible Bank Account

Choose from Wise, WorldFirst, Revolut Business, or others. These EMIs accept US residents and provide GBP accounts.

5. Top UK Bank Options for US-Based Owners

Note: These are Electronic Money Institutions (EMIs), not traditional banks, but are FCA-regulated and widely accepted.

6. Understanding UK Tax & Compliance

Corporation Tax

• 19% on profits under £50,000
• 25% on profits above £250,000
• Must register with HMRC within 3 months of starting business

VAT

• £90,000 UK turnover threshold
• Optional registration below threshold
• Submit returns quarterly via MTD software

Annual Filing Duties

• Confirmation Statement: £13/year
• Annual Accounts: Filed with Companies House
• Consider using IncorpUK’s compliance add-ons or a UK accountant

7. Avoid These Mistakes as a US Founder

❌ Trying to register without ID verification (mandatory in 2025)
❌ Using a PO box or non-compliant address
❌ Delaying bank setup after incorporation
❌ Assuming UK tax applies globally—tax treaties may reduce or eliminate double taxation
❌ Filing on your own instead of using IncorpUK’s fast-track process

8. FAQs for US-Based Entrepreneurs

Q: Can I be the only director and shareholder?
Yes. UK companies allow 100% ownership and control.

Q: Do I need a UK address or phone number?
Not personally. Your company needs a UK registered office, which IncorpUK provides.

Q: How long does it take to register?
Typically less than 24 hours with IncorpUK.

Q: Will I be double-taxed in the US and UK?
Not necessarily. The UK and US have a tax treaty—consult a cross-border tax advisor.

Q: Can I receive Stripe or PayPal payments to my UK company?
Yes, especially if you have a UK bank account through Wise or Revolut.

9. Final Checklist (US to UK Formation)

✅ Use IncorpUK’s Name Checker
✅ Select a company formation package
✅ Complete secure ID verification
✅ Receive incorporation certificate + CRN
✅ Open a Wise or WorldFirst business account
✅ Register with HMRC
✅ Set reminders for annual filings

Conclusion

Starting a UK company from the US in 2025 is simple, fast, and affordable—when done the right way. With the help of an experienced formation agent like IncorpUK, you’ll avoid paperwork, delays, and technical pitfalls.

You don’t need to know how to file Form IN01 or spend days deciphering Companies House requirements. Just pick your company name, verify your ID, and let IncorpUK handle the rest.

In 48 hours or less, you could be running an internationally respected UK Ltd company—from anywhere in the US.

Ready to start? Visit incorpuk.com and launch your UK business today.