UK · TOPIC OVERVIEW

Licensing & Permits in UK

A source-backed INCORPSYS guide to licensing & permits in UK, with official-source verification and next-step guidance.

Direct answer

UK registration requires an official registered office and a SIC code that identifies the company’s business activity.

What the official guidance says

Source: GOV.UK / Companies House guidance, via our in-depth guides:

Licensing & Permits checklist for UK

  • Choose an address that satisfies the registered-office rules.
  • Select the appropriate SIC code.
  • Keep address and activity details current.
  • Separate incorporation details from any separate operating licence.

Practical focus

Start with the business activity and then verify whether an additional licence, permit or approval is required before operations begin.

Frequently asked questions

Which authority controls licensing & permits 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 we write our guidesWe summarise official guidance and link to it. We do not publish fees, timelines or approval promises unless the authority does. Read our methodology.

Next step

Planning a company in UK?

Answer a few questions about your activity, ownership and timeline. We map each step to the authority that controls it and reply with a structured plan.