Direct answer
To set up a UK private limited company, GOV.UK guides you to choose the company type, appoint at least one director, identify shareholders and people with significant control, prepare constitutional documents, choose a name, registered office and SIC code, then register online. The certificate of incorporation confirms the company exists.
What the official guidance says
GOV.UK explains that the company setup route depends on the chosen company type and whether the company is limited by shares or guarantee.
Choosing a Private Limited Company Type in UKGOV.UK lists constitutional and capital/guarantee documents as part of the formation process, depending on company type.
Memorandum and Articles in UKGOV.UK provides an online registration route and may set up Corporation Tax at the same time unless the company is dormant.
Online Company Registration in UKThe certificate of incorporation confirms that the company legally exists and records the company number and date of formation.
Certificate of Incorporation in UK
Source: GOV.UK / Companies House guidance, via our in-depth guides:
Company Incorporation Overview checklist for UK
- Choose shares or guarantee based on the proposed structure.
- Confirm the appropriate incorporation route.
- Review the statutory records that will follow incorporation.
- Keep the decision aligned with the business model.
- Prepare the required memorandum and articles.
- Prepare the statement of capital or guarantee as applicable.
- Review the company records that must be retained.
- Ensure the filed documents match the chosen structure.
- Create the required Government Gateway access where needed.
- Complete the company details accurately.
- Provide PSC and officer information.
- Save the incorporation confirmation and company number.
- Store the certificate securely.
- Use the company number consistently across records.
- Set up the corporate records required after formation.
- Do not treat incorporation as completion of all compliance duties.
Practical focus
Use this page to establish the official starting point, identify the responsible authority, and map the incorporation route before selecting a service provider.
Frequently asked questions
Which authority controls company incorporation overview in UK?
GOV.UK / Companies House is the primary authority for the guidance on this page. Other authorities can be involved depending on your activity; re-check the official source before acting.
How many directors does a UK private company need?
At least one. Under the GOV.UK formation guidance, a company secretary is optional for a private company.
What is a PSC?
A person with significant control. UK incorporation requires companies to identify them, including relevant ownership or voting control information.
Does registering set up Corporation Tax?
GOV.UK's online registration route may set up Corporation Tax at the same time, unless the company is dormant.