'Payment Gateways' - FAQ
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Payment Gateways

Here will be the FAQs and details related to 'Payment Gateways'.

What is a payment gateway? +
A payment gateway is an online payment processing platform that allows your UK business to accept online payments from customers via credit/debit cards, digital wallets, and more. It acts as the "middleman" between your website, customer, and the bank.
Do I need a UK company to get a payment gateway? +
Yes, most payment processors require a registered UK company with a UK business bank account and proof of business operations. We provide guidelines and support for payment gateway account setup.
What are the most popular payment gateways in the UK? +
Some of the most widely used options include: Stripe, PayPal Business, Paddle, Shopify Payments, Worldpay, Revolut Business, Checkout.com
What do I need to apply for a payment gateway? +
  • UK Limited Company (duly registered with Companies House) (we can help)
  • Business bank account (in your company’s name) (We provide support)
  • Valid ID and proof of address (for directors/shareholders)
  • Other Company Requirements such as address and documentations (we can help)
Can non-UK residents get a payment gateway for their UK company? +
Yes. A non UK resident can open payment gateway accounts for their UK companies such as Stripe, PayPal, Shopify Payments, etc. We provide guidelines and support to our UK and non UK resident customers for payment gateway accounts setup.
Do I need to have a live website before applying? +
Payment processors usually require a website but a social media page could also be used in place of a website.
What are the setup costs? +
Many providers like Stripe or PayPal offer free setup, but charge per-transaction fees (e.g., 1.4% + 20p for UK cards with Stripe). Traditional providers may charge setup fees or monthly service charges.
What is the difference between a payment gateway and a merchant account? +
A payment gateway authorizes transactions.

A merchant account is where funds are held temporarily before being transferred to your business bank account. Some providers (like Stripe) bundle both into one.
Do I need traditional banks in the UK to set up payment gateways? +
No. Stripe and most other payment gateways do not require traditional or high street banks in the UK. They are very flexible and 100% accept business bank accounts such as Wise, Tide, etc and all of which are our official partners.
How long does it take to get approved? +
  • Stripe: Usually within a few hours.
  • PayPal: Instant or within a few hours
  • Shopify payments: Usually within 1 to 2 days.
  • Paddle: Usually within 1 day.
  • Worldpay/Sage: Up to 7–10 business days. It depends on your business type, risk category, and documentation.
Can I accept international payments with a UK Payment gateway? +
Yes, most gateways support multi-currency and international payments. Some charge extra for currency conversion or international card processing.
What are “high-risk” businesses and can they get approved? +
High-risk industries (e.g., CBD, forex, adult, gaming) often face extra scrutiny and may need a specialist payment provider or pay higher fees.
Do I need to be VAT-registered to use a payment gateway? +
No, VAT registration is not required for setting up an account with payment gateway platforms.
Can I integrate the gateway with my e-commerce site? +
  • Shopify
  • WooCommerce
  • Magento
  • BigCommerce
  • Wix
  • And other custom built websites
What kind of ID verification is needed? +
  • Passport or government ID of company directors
  • Utility bill or bank statement as proof of address
  • Business registration documents from Companies House (We can help)
  • Proof of Business address (we can help)
  • Proof of Company Ownership, etc (we can help)
How are funds settled to my account? +
  • Stripe: 3–7 days rolling basis for new businesses
  • PayPal: Instantly (withdraw manually)
  • Traditional providers: Weekly or biweekly
What if my application is rejected? +
Try alternative gateways, fix website issues, or work with a high-risk merchant account provider. Some formation agents can help with gateway setup as part of their services.
Are there transaction limits for new businesses? +
Yes. New businesses often face daily/weekly caps until you build trust. Limits are usually reviewed after 1–3 months of trading.
Can I have multiple gateways at once? +
  • Yes, many businesses useStripe + PayPal or other combos to
  • Offer customer choice
  • Reduce risk of downtime
  • Manage fee structures
Do I need to comply with any regulations? Yes. +
  • PCI-DSS compliance (for handling card payments)
  • KYC/AML checks during onboarding
  • Consumer protection laws if selling goods/services

IncorpUK is the easiest way to start and manage a UK company from anywhere in the world, access UK and international business banking, payment gateways, startup resources and stay compliant. Incorpuk is a technology driven business infrastructure that provides the resources and platform for founders to access financial products, manage and scale their business.

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