The United Kingdom has one of the most successful economies in the EU. It attracts more inward investment from Asia and the US than any other EU country. This success is reflected in the number of foreign companies that have set up businesses in the UK.
A summary of UK Corporate Taxes is available here.
Frequently Asked Questions about the United Kingdom
Why are foreign investors so keen on United Kingdom company formation?
Foreign investors have cited a number of reasons for choosing UK company registration, including the following:
– Size of the market – it is the world’s 4th largest economy
– Location and language – a natural point of entry into the EU & surrounding markets
– Government policy – the UK is one of the easiest places to set up and conduct business
– Corporate income tax – currently 20% and potentially falling to 17% post-Brexit
What are the main types of UK company available?
These are the most popular forms of company for foreign investors to incorporate in the UK:
– Private Limited Company (Ltd)
– Public Limited Company (Plc)
– Branch of a foreign company
– Limited Liability Partnership
What are the main features of a Private Limited Company (Ltd)?
This is by far the most popular format for foreign investors
– Only one shareholder is needed, which is ideal for wholly-owned subsidiaries
– There is no minimum capital requirement
– A minimum of one director and a company secretary is required
– Accounts should be filed annually
What are the main features of a Public Limited Company (Plc)?
– The minimum share capital for a Plc is £50,000
– At least 25% of the share capital must be paid up
– There is a minimum requirements of two directors and a company secretary
– Financial statements are required to be audited if turnover exceeds £1m
What are the main features of a Branch in the UK?
– The foreign parent is responsible for all liabilities of a UK Branch
– The Branch is required to register with Companies House
– Parent company accounts must be filed annually
What are the main features of a Limited Liability Partnership in the UK?
– This is a fairly new format but is increasingly used for Joint Ventures
– There must be at least two members, each with limited liability
– It has the same registration and disclosure requirements as a Limited Company
– Other types of partnership are possible but rarely used by foreign companies
How easy is it to recruit staff in the UK?
Despite a steady fall in unemployment over the past decade, foreign companies will find little difficulty in recruiting local staff.
The UK recruitment sector is thriving and British workers are generally well educated, motivated, and able to adapt to different management styles.
Please contact us to discuss your recruitment requirements.
What is the regulatory environment like in the UK?
The UK government places a priority on attracting investment from abroad, and has sought to ensure that the regulatory environment is as liberal as possible.
There are very few restrictions on foreign ownership or investment, although certain sectors, such as financial services, are strictly regulated to protect the consumer.
The authorities also enforce laws guarding against the abuse of monopoly powers.
Are there financial incentives available in the UK?
Financial incentives are available for companies who wish to set up business in UK and are willing to invest in specific areas and sectors.
Grants may be provided to assist job-creating investment in certain areas of the UK, mainly outside London and the south east.
Other incentives take the form of research and development grants, technical assistance for exports, and export credit guarantees.
How easy is it to close a UK company?
Please contact us in order to discuss closing your company in the UK.
What about banking facilities in the UK?
The City of London is one of the world’s foremost financial centres, and banks from most countries have offices here.
The UK offers sophisticated banking facilities to the business community, but the process of opening a account can be time-consuming
For assistance with opening a bank account in Cyprus, please contact us.
