If your company is based overseas but has plans to expand into the UK, you may be wondering whether you need to register with Companies House.
The answer depends on how you intend to operate and the activities you plan to carry out in the UK.
When do you need to register with Companies House?
Overseas companies must register with Companies House if they establish a UK branch or a place of business.
A branch is a location where your company conducts business, and it is not a separate legal entity but an extension of your overseas company.
A place of business includes any physical or operational presence in the UK, such as an office or warehouse.
If you are simply trading with UK customers without a physical presence, registration with Companies House is generally not required.
Speak with your experts to discuss your options, as there are nuances to these requirements.
What steps do overseas companies need to take?
If you do need to register, here are the key steps:
- Submit Form OS IN01 – You will need to complete this form, providing details about your overseas company, including its name, country of incorporation, and business activities.
- Provide certified documents – Companies House requires certified copies of your constitutional documents (such as articles of association) and a copy of your latest accounts if they are required to be filed in your home country.
- Appoint a representative – Appoint a UK-based authorised representative who can manage correspondence and ensure compliance.
- Check for additional obligations – Depending on your business activities, you may need to register for VAT, set up a UK payroll scheme, or comply with sector-specific regulations.
- Ongoing filing requirements – Once registered, you will need to submit annual accounts and notify Companies House of any changes to your company’s details.
Why is compliance so important?
Failing to register with Companies House when required can result in significant penalties and reputational damage.
UK regulations are designed to create a transparent business environment, and non-compliance can raise red flags with customers, suppliers, and regulators.
We specialise in helping international companies establish and operate in the UK, ensuring full compliance with Companies House and other regulatory bodies.
Contact us today to discuss your plans and find out how we can support your UK operations.
Reanda UK is a subsidiary of leading independent accountancy firm Grunberg & Co Limited. Our aim is to help businesses and individuals to navigate the UK’s world-renowned business and tax infrastructure, and to support them with their international ambitions. To find out how we can help you, please contact us.