How Much Does It Cost to Set Up a Limited Company in the UK?

The cost to set up a limited company in the UK is generally quite affordable compared to many other countries. The total expense depends on whether you register the company yourself directly with government authorities or use a professional service provider to handle the process.

1. Official UK Government (Companies House Fees)

The UK government publishes the official company registration fees through Companies House. According to the government fee schedule:

• Digital incorporation fee: about £100
• Paper incorporation fee: about £124
• Same-day incorporation: about £156

These fees were updated from 1 February 2026 as part of regulatory reforms under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act.

2. Additional Setup Costs

Although the official government fee is minimal, most businesses incur additional setup costs depending on their needs. These may include:

• Registered office address services
• Company secretary services (optional for most private companies)
• Business bank account setup
• Legal or accounting advice
• Document certification or apostille services for international use

If you choose to use a company formation agent or corporate service provider, incorporation packages may typically range from US$ 564 to US$ 694 or more, depending on the level of support provided.

3. Ongoing Compliance Costs

After the company is registered, there are also ongoing obligations to keep the business in good standing. These may include:

• Filing an annual confirmation statement
• Submitting annual accounts
• Paying corporation tax on profits
• Maintaining accounting and record-keeping services

Many entrepreneurs choose to work with professional corporate service providers such as Offshore Company Corp, which can assist with company formation, compliance requirements, and administrative support when establishing a limited company in the UK.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Company formation fees, regulatory requirements, and compliance obligations in the United Kingdom may change over time.