{"id":179112,"date":"2023-01-12T02:15:38","date_gmt":"2023-01-12T02:15:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/?p=179112"},"modified":"2026-07-01T06:23:17","modified_gmt":"2026-07-01T05:23:17","slug":"overseas-start-business","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/","title":{"rendered":"I Live Overseas. How Do I Start a Business in the UK?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">If you currently <a href=\"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/franchising\/legal-implications-international-franchising\/\">live overseas and have a business idea<\/a> for the UK market, you can still start a <a href=\"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/startups\/registering-hmrc\/\">UK-based business regardless of your location<\/a>. If you have a good idea and potential customers in mind, starting a business in the UK is a worthwhile endeavour. In this article, we will discuss how you begin the process of starting a business within the UK from abroad.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Initial Considerations<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A good business idea is only the start of your UK-based business journey. You will need to conduct market research in your chosen industry, take advantage of social media, and learn how to gain new customers from your potential customer base. Additionally, it is important to consider:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">how you will obtain business loans;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">whether you need public liability insurance; and\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">what <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/intellectual-property\/intellectual-property-types\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">intellectual property protections<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> to register, amongst others.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Once you have decided on your business plan, creating the name for your business is critical. A solid business name is important whether you intend to start as a sole trader\/small business or a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/sole-trader-partnership-company\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">limited company<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">If you choose to register with Companies House as a limited company, you will need to consider:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">appointing a director\/directors (you must have at least one);<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">creating a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/corporations\/memorandum-of-association\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">company memorandum<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> and articles of association;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">registering your business address; and<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">tax implications.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Registering a Limited Company with Companies House<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">If you are setting up a limited company in the UK, it is a legal requirement to produce both a company memorandum and articles of association. As an overview, these documents specify how your company will be run. The memorandum is a legal statement agreeing to form the company. All initial shareholders or guarantors must sign it. Likewise, the articles of association are rules on how the company will be run. You can find templates for these on the Companies House website, though it is always best practice to ensure they accurately reflect the unique features of your business.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<a href=\"#content-next\"\n   class=\"block p-4 mt-10 text-xl font-bold text-center text-white no-underline bg-gray-800 rounded-t-xl\">\n    Continue reading this article below the form\n    <i class=\"text-xl fa-regular fa-arrow-down\"><\/i>\n<\/a>\n<div class=\"px-6 pt-10 pb-12 mb-10 text-center bg-gray-100 rounded-b-xl sm:px-12 test\">\n    <div class=\"mb-8 text-2xl font-bold text-orange\">\n        Need legal advice?\n        <br>\n        <span class=\"text-lg not-prose\">\n                            Call <a href=\"tel:+448081968584\" class=\"not-prose\">0808 196 8584<\/a> for urgent assistance.\n                <br>\n                Otherwise, complete this form, and we will contact you within one business day.\n                    <\/span>\n    <\/div>\n\n    \n\n<div class=\"not-prose flex justify-center text-left gform_input_bg_white    \">\n    <script>\nvar gform;gform||(document.addEventListener(\"gform_main_scripts_loaded\",function(){gform.scriptsLoaded=!0}),document.addEventListener(\"gform\/theme\/scripts_loaded\",function(){gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0}),window.addEventListener(\"DOMContentLoaded\",function(){gform.domLoaded=!0}),gform={domLoaded:!1,scriptsLoaded:!1,themeScriptsLoaded:!1,isFormEditor:()=>\"function\"==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(\"The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.\"),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(\"gform_main_scripts_loaded\",()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(\"gform\/theme\/scripts_loaded\",()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(\"DOMContentLoaded\",()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(\"action\",o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(\"filter\",o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(\"action\",o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(\"filter\",o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(\"action\",o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(\"filter\",o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+\"_\"+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){\"function\"!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),\"action\"==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),\"filter\"==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}});\n<\/script>\n\n                <div class='gf_browser_gecko gform_wrapper gravity-theme gform-theme--no-framework lawyer-form_wrapper gplaceholder_wrapper form-with-labels-no-asterisks_wrapper has-new-validation-error-styling_wrapper' data-form-theme='gravity-theme' data-form-index='0' id='gform_wrapper_2453' style='display:none'><div id='gf_2453' class='gform_anchor' tabindex='-1'><\/div><form method='post' enctype='multipart\/form-data' target='gform_ajax_frame_2453' id='gform_2453' class='lawyer-form gplaceholder form-with-labels-no-asterisks has-new-validation-error-styling' action='\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/179112#gf_2453' data-formid='2453' novalidate>\n                        <div class='gform-body gform_body'><div id='gform_fields_2453' class='gform_fields top_label form_sublabel_below description_below validation_below'><div id=\"field_2453_1000\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-honeypot gform_validation_container field_sublabel_below gfield--has-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\"  ><label class='gfield_label gform-field-label' for='input_2453_1000'>Name<\/label><div class='ginput_container'><input name='input_1000' id='input_2453_1000' type='text' value='' autocomplete='new-password'\/><\/div><div class='gfield_description' id='gfield_description_2453_1000'>This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.<\/div><\/div><div id=\"field_2453_1\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-text gfield--input-type-text gf_left_half gfield--width-half gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\"  ><label class='gfield_label gform-field-label' for='input_2453_1'>First Name<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/label><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_text'><input name='input_1' id='input_2453_1' type='text' value='' class='medium'     aria-required=\"true\" aria-invalid=\"false\"   \/><\/div><\/div><div id=\"field_2453_12\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-text gfield--input-type-text gf_right_half gfield--width-half gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\"  ><label class='gfield_label gform-field-label' for='input_2453_12'>Last Name<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/label><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_text'><input name='input_12' id='input_2453_12' type='text' value='' class='medium'     aria-required=\"true\" aria-invalid=\"false\"   \/><\/div><\/div><div id=\"field_2453_2\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-email gfield--input-type-email gf_left_half gfield--width-half gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\"  ><label class='gfield_label gform-field-label' for='input_2453_2'>Email Address<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/label><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_email'>\n                            <input name='input_2' id='input_2453_2' type='email' value='' class='medium'    aria-required=\"true\" aria-invalid=\"false\"  \/>\n                        <\/div><\/div><div id=\"field_2453_3\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-phone gfield--input-type-phone gf_right_half gfield--width-half gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\"  ><label class='gfield_label gform-field-label' for='input_2453_3'>Phone<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/label><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_phone'><input name='input_3' id='input_2453_3' type='tel' value='' class='medium'   aria-required=\"true\" aria-invalid=\"false\"   \/><\/div><\/div><div id=\"field_2453_14\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-select gfield--input-type-select gfield--width-full custom-select gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\"  ><label class='gfield_label gform-field-label' for='input_2453_14'>Number of Employees in Your Business<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/label><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_select'><select name='input_14' id='input_2453_14' class='large gfield_select'    aria-required=\"true\" aria-invalid=\"false\" ><option value='' selected='selected'>Select ...<\/option><option value='0' >0<\/option><option value='1' >1-5<\/option><option value='6' >6-20<\/option><option value='21' >21-50<\/option><option value='51' >51-250<\/option><option value='250' >250+<\/option><\/select><\/div><\/div><div id=\"field_2453_4\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-textarea gfield--input-type-textarea gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\"  ><label class='gfield_label gform-field-label' for='input_2453_4'>Tell us about your enquiry<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/label><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_textarea'><textarea name='input_4' id='input_2453_4' class='textarea medium'     aria-required=\"true\" aria-invalid=\"false\"   rows='10' cols='50'><\/textarea><\/div><\/div><div id=\"field_2453_5\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield_html gfield_html_formatted gfield_no_follows_desc field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\"  >By submitting this form, you agree to receive emails from LegalVision and can unsubscribe at any time. View our <a href=\"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/privacy-notice\/\" target=\"_blank\">Privacy Policy<\/a>. <\/div><div id=\"field_2453_8\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-hidden gfield--input-type-hidden gform_hidden field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\"  ><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_text'><input name='input_8' id='input_2453_8' type='hidden' class='gform_hidden'  aria-invalid=\"false\" value='http:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/179112' \/><\/div><\/div><div id=\"field_2453_13\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-hidden gfield--input-type-hidden gform_hidden field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\"  ><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_text'><input name='input_13' id='input_2453_13' type='hidden' class='gform_hidden'  aria-invalid=\"false\" value='generic_form' \/><\/div><\/div><fieldset id=\"field_2453_999\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-checkbox gfield--type-choice gfield__uk-marketo-opt-in field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\"  ><legend class='gfield_label gform-field-label screen-reader-text' ><\/legend><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_checkbox'><div class='gfield_checkbox ' id='input_2453_999'><div class='gchoice gchoice_2453_999_1'>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_999.1' type='checkbox'  value='1'  id='choice_2453_999_1'   \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_2453_999_1' id='label_2453_999_1' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>By submitting this form, you agree to receive content and event invitations from us to help you grow your business. If you do not want to receive such messages, tick here.<\/label>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/fieldset><\/div><\/div>\n        <div class='gform-footer gform_footer top_label'> <button type=\"submit\" id=\"gform_submit_button_2453\" class=\"gform_button button\" onclick=\"gform.submission.handleButtonClick(this);\" data-submission-type=\"submit\"><span class=\"gform_submit_button__text\">Submit Now<\/span><\/button> <input type='hidden' name='gform_ajax' value='form_id=2453&amp;title=&amp;description=&amp;tabindex=0&amp;theme=gravity-theme&amp;hash=ec2463697d0d9cef7b71236ae60964c7' \/>\n            <input type='hidden' class='gform_hidden' name='gform_submission_method' data-js='gform_submission_method_2453' value='iframe' \/>\n            <input type='hidden' class='gform_hidden' name='gform_theme' data-js='gform_theme_2453' id='gform_theme_2453' value='gravity-theme' \/>\n            <input type='hidden' class='gform_hidden' name='gform_style_settings' data-js='gform_style_settings_2453' id='gform_style_settings_2453' value='' \/>\n            <input type='hidden' class='gform_hidden' name='is_submit_2453' value='1' \/>\n            <input type='hidden' class='gform_hidden' name='gform_submit' value='2453' \/>\n            \n            <input type='hidden' class='gform_hidden' name='gform_currency' data-currency='GBP' value='3lUW+i85MtjDJmKNlsohEZkjEAR1QJFXBEuHDYJg4YAfz6Jkq54cbcVnDchQqSIUFtpxePGn\/GDf71IMySBEp4HeY\/AwMPUFpz1BnYO1+zs5xPY=' \/>\n            <input type='hidden' class='gform_hidden' name='gform_unique_id' value='' \/>\n            <input type='hidden' class='gform_hidden' name='state_2453' value='WyJ7XCIxNFwiOltcIjIyODY0N2ViMWU3NTcxZjA4YTY4NGJmMDcwMTk3Y2I0XCIsXCJiMzk3YmQ1MDBmMmFjNjk1ODE4MzdmNTBhYTA2MzQ0OFwiLFwiNGYyNGZkZGEwMzlkNDUxMWFhZGE1NGYwZmQwZmNiZTdcIixcIjUyMmJkMDE2M2I2ZmEwOTI3NDZhZjU5YTg0ZmM1NDk5XCIsXCIzODRlNjk1YjQxMTAzMWFiYmQ2ODEyMGYyZWFhMDYyNlwiLFwiYjkzNDcwNTE2MjkxOGRjZWViMjQzNzRjNmE0NGVmNTlcIixcIjQxMTliODZhMzVjYzJiMWViNDZiMmQ4NjRlNGUzZmNjXCJdfSIsIjQ3MjNiMzA2ZDIyZGVkODA2N2YyMjYyOThkYzI1ODVmIl0=' \/>\n            <input type='hidden' autocomplete='off' class='gform_hidden' name='gform_target_page_number_2453' id='gform_target_page_number_2453' value='0' \/>\n            <input type='hidden' autocomplete='off' class='gform_hidden' name='gform_source_page_number_2453' id='gform_source_page_number_2453' value='1' \/>\n            <input type='hidden' name='gform_field_values' value='' \/>\n            \n        <\/div>\n                        <\/form>\n                        <\/div>\n\t\t                <iframe style='display:none;width:0px;height:0px;' src='about:blank' name='gform_ajax_frame_2453' id='gform_ajax_frame_2453' title='This iframe contains the logic required to handle Ajax powered Gravity Forms.'><\/iframe>\n\t\t                <script>\ngform.initializeOnLoaded( function() {gformInitSpinner( 2453, 'https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/legalv-v6\/img\/spinner.svg', true );jQuery('#gform_ajax_frame_2453').on('load',function(){var contents = jQuery(this).contents().find('*').html();var is_postback = contents.indexOf('GF_AJAX_POSTBACK') >= 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find('#gform_wrapper_2453');var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find('#gform_confirmation_wrapper_2453').length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf('gformRedirect(){') >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery('html').css('margin-top'), 10) + parseInt(jQuery('body').css('margin-top'), 10) + 100;if(is_form){form_content.find('form').css('opacity', 0);jQuery('#gform_wrapper_2453').html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass('gform_validation_error')){jQuery('#gform_wrapper_2453').addClass('gform_validation_error');} else {jQuery('#gform_wrapper_2453').removeClass('gform_validation_error');}setTimeout( function() { \/* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome *\/ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery('#gform_wrapper_2453').offset().top - mt); }, 50 );if(window['gformInitDatepicker']) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window['gformInitPriceFields']) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery('#gform_source_page_number_2453').val();gformInitSpinner( 2453, 'https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/legalv-v6\/img\/spinner.svg', true );jQuery(document).trigger('gform_page_loaded', [2453, current_page]);window['gf_submitting_2453'] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find('.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK').html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery('#gform_wrapper_2453').replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery('#gf_2453').offset().top - mt);jQuery(document).trigger('gform_confirmation_loaded', [2453]);window['gf_submitting_2453'] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery('#gform_confirmation_message_2453').text());}else{jQuery('#gform_2453').append(contents);if(window['gformRedirect']) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(\"gform_pre_post_render\", [{ formId: \"2453\", currentPage: \"current_page\", abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]);        if (event && event.defaultPrevented) {                return;        }        const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( \"gform_wrapper_2453\" );        if ( gformWrapperDiv ) {            const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( \"span\" );            visibilitySpan.id = \"gform_visibility_test_2453\";            gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( \"afterend\", visibilitySpan );        }        const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( \"gform_visibility_test_2453\" );        let postRenderFired = false;        function triggerPostRender() {            if ( postRenderFired ) {                return;            }            postRenderFired = true;            gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 2453, current_page );            if ( visibilityTestDiv ) {                visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv );            }        }        function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) {            var timeout;            return function() {                var context = this, args = arguments;                var later = function() {                    timeout = null;                    if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args );                };                var callNow = immediate && !timeout;                clearTimeout( timeout );                timeout = setTimeout( later, wait );                if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args );            };        }        const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() {            triggerPostRender();        }, 200 );        if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) {            const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => {                mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => {                    if ( mutation.type === 'attributes' && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) {                        debouncedTriggerPostRender();                        observer.disconnect();                    }                });            });            observer.observe( document.body, {                attributes: true,                childList: false,                subtree: true,                attributeFilter: [ 'style', 'class' ],            });        } else {            triggerPostRender();        }    } );} );\n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"content-next\"><!-- scroll anchor --><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Address Requirements<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">&nbsp;As a non-UK resident and potentially non-UK national, you may be wondering whether you can set up a business based in the UK. The UK market is open to everyone, and there are no residency or nationality restrictions when starting a new business. The main requirement is that your business must have a UK-registered address, even if you have an online business.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">However, there is flexibility in terms of the address you choose, meaning you can register a:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">family member\u2019s address;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">friend\u2019s address;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">different business\u2019 address as long as you have their consent; or<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">virtual office address.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"box box--icon box--info\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A virtual office registered address can be preferable where you wish to maintain the privacy of friends, family members or business associates. It is easily obtained for a fee from many different providers and can also add a degree of professionalism. Any mail sent to this address will then be forwarded to another address that you specify.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">If you do not register as a limited company, you will be deemed a sole trader. You will need to inform HMRC when you start your business to avoid potential fines.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Restrictions on Employment<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Visa requirements are still actively in force when you own a business from abroad. This means you may not be able to come to the UK and work visa-free under your business name. However, you will be entitled to hire people to work at your business if you wish.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">For example, if you are based in China and run a new business in the UK, you will need a visa to physically come to the UK and work at your business premises. However, you can continue to work for your company remotely from China without a visa.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"box box--icon box--info\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">It is important to note these restrictions to ensure you choose a business structure that makes the day-to-day running of the company doable from overseas.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Tax Requirements<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Additionally, all UK-based businesses are subject to tax requirements. Your tax will differ, however, dependent on the type of business you run. If you own a small business, you will only be liable to pay income tax. However, you must pay corporation tax if you run a limited company. If you are a company director within a limited company, you will be classed as an employee for tax purposes, meaning you will have to pay income tax on any earnings you make. It is often easier to keep track of your taxes by setting up a business bank account.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Compliance and Ongoing Obligations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Beyond the initial setup, UK businesses have ongoing compliance requirements that overseas owners must maintain. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div  class=\"box box--icon box--info\">\n    <p>For example, limited companies must file annual returns with Companies House and submit annual accounts, regardless of whether the business is actively trading. These obligations continue even if you are managing the business remotely.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Consider appointing a local accountant or business advisor who can help ensure compliance with UK regulations and deadlines. This is particularly important for overseas business owners who may not be familiar with UK business law nuances or may face challenges with time zone differences when dealing with official correspondence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Understanding UK Business Banking Requirements<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Opening a business bank account is essential for managing your UK business finances effectively, even when operating from overseas. Most UK banks will require your business to be registered and have a UK address before opening an account. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div  class=\"box box--icon box--info\">\n    <p>You will typically need to provide your Certificate of Incorporation (for limited companies), proof of your registered address, and identification documents.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some banks offer online business banking services specifically designed for non-resident business owners, making it easier to manage day-to-day transactions remotely. It is advisable to research different banking options early in your planning process, as some banks have more stringent requirements for overseas business owners than others.<\/p>\n\n\n    <div class=\"my-7 lg:my-10 border-y-2 border-gray-100 py-7 lg:py-10 flex flex-col sm:flex-row items-start gap-10\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"w-52 mx-auto my-0! rounded\" src=\"https:\/\/img.legalvision.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/09\/06164254\/uk-startup-manual-290x410-1.jpg\" alt=\"Front page of publication\"\n                 loading=\"lazy\" width=\"208\" height=\"298\">\n                <section>\n            <div class=\"text-2xl font-bold\">UK Startup Manual<\/div>\n            <div class=\"body-text\">\n                <p>LegalVision&#8217;s Startup Manual is essential reading material for any startup founder looking to launch and grow a successful startup.<\/p>\n            <\/div>\n            \n\n<a href=\"https:\/\/go.legalvision.co.uk\/uk-startup-manual.html\" class=\" block px-5 py-3.5 max-w-fit bg-orange button__hover transition rounded text-white font-bold text-lg no-underline uppercase leading-tight text-center\" target=\"\" rel=\"\">Download Now<\/a>        <\/section>\n    <\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<div  class=\"box box--icon box--info\">\n    <p dir=\"auto\"><strong>Key Statistics<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol dir=\"auto\">\n<li><strong>42%<\/strong>: of UK businesses expanding overseas report regulatory compliance as their primary challenge in the first year.<\/li>\n<li><strong>28%<\/strong>: increase in tax efficiency achieved by UK residents structuring overseas operations through appropriate local entities.<\/li>\n<li><strong>1 in 3<\/strong>: UK entrepreneurs face unexpected setup costs when starting businesses abroad without prior professional advice.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p dir=\"auto\"><strong>Sources<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol dir=\"auto\">\n<li>British Chambers of Commerce (2023)<\/li>\n<li>HM Revenue &amp; Customs\u00a0(2025)<\/li>\n<li>Institute of Directors\u00a0(2024)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Key Takeaways<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">If you currently live overseas, starting your new business in the UK is still possible. Even if you are not a UK resident or national, there are no restrictions from starting a business in the UK. However, you will need to make initial decisions about the name and type of business structure you will adopt. If you choose to run a small business as a sole trader, there are fewer legal requirements you must meet. Alternatively, if you register as a limited company, there are several administrative steps to complete. Amongst others, you will need to:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">decide who will be company directors;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">find a company address;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">draft necessary documentation; and\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">inform yourself of any corporation tax, income tax and national insurance requirements.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">LegalVision provides ongoing legal support for businesses through our fixed-fee legal membership. Our experienced <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-lawyers-lp\">business lawyers<\/a><\/strong> help businesses manage contracts, employment law, disputes, intellectual property, and more, with unlimited access to specialist lawyers for a fixed monthly fee. To learn more about LegalVision\u2019s legal membership, call <a href=\"tel:+448081968584\" class=\"AVANSERnumber dynamic-number\">0808 196 8584<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/membership\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">visit our membership page<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1673489387726\"><h3 class=\"schema-faq-question\">Do I need to be a resident to start a business in the UK?<\/h3> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">If you currently live overseas, starting your new business in the UK is still possible. Even if you are not a UK resident or national, there are no restrictions from starting a business in the UK.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1673489399415\"><h3 class=\"schema-faq-question\">Does my business need to have a physical address that is based in the UK?<\/h3> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">While there are no residency or nationality restrictions, your business must have a UK-registered address, even if you have an online business. You might choose to record the address of a friend, family member or business associate who is based in the UK. Alternatively, you can obtain a virtual office registered address for a small fee.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1782883160630\"><h3 class=\"schema-faq-question\">How long does it take to register a limited company in the UK from overseas?<\/h3> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The company registration process with Companies House typically takes 24 hours if you file online, though it can take longer if you submit a paper application. However, as an overseas applicant, you may need additional time to gather required documentation and set up your UK registered address, so it is advisable to allow several weeks for the complete process including opening business bank accounts.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1782883167313\"><h3 class=\"schema-faq-question\">What ongoing costs should I expect when running a UK business from overseas?<\/h3> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Beyond the initial setup costs, you should budget for annual filing fees to Companies House (currently \u00a313 for online filing), accounting and legal fees, virtual office costs if applicable, business banking charges, and potential costs for professional services to ensure compliance. Corporation tax will also apply to limited companies based on profits, while sole traders pay income tax on their earnings.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If you currently live overseas and have a business idea for the UK market, you can still start a UK-based business regardless of your location. If you have a good idea and potential customers in mind, starting a business in the UK is a worthwhile endeavour. In this article, we will discuss how you begin<a href=\"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/\">Continue reading <span class=\"sr-only\">&#8220;I Live Overseas. How Do I Start a Business in the UK?&#8221;<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":13581,"featured_media":3241,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_relevanssi_hide_post":"","_relevanssi_hide_content":"","_relevanssi_pin_for_all":"","_relevanssi_pin_keywords":"","_relevanssi_unpin_keywords":"","_relevanssi_related_keywords":"","_relevanssi_related_include_ids":"","_relevanssi_related_exclude_ids":"","_relevanssi_related_no_append":"","_relevanssi_related_not_related":"","_relevanssi_related_posts":"3291,177854,1954,4472,1790,4054","_relevanssi_noindex_reason":"","editor_notices":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[36],"tags":[20,21,137,151,153,1212],"class_list":["post-179112","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-business-structures","tag-small-business","tag-medium-business","tag-companies-house","tag-sole-trader","tag-limited-company","tag-foreign-national"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.7 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>I Live Overseas. How Do I Start a UK Business? | LegalVision UK<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"If you currently live overseas, it is still possible to start a new business in the UK. We explore the key legal considerations to note.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_GB\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"I Live Overseas. How Do I Start a UK Business? | LegalVision UK\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"If you currently live overseas, it is still possible to start a new business in the UK. We explore the key legal considerations to note.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"LegalVision UK\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/LegalVision\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2023-01-12T02:15:38+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-07-01T05:23:17+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/img.legalvision.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/24122229\/business-image-0522182.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1132\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"755\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Lloyd Edwards\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@LegalVision_law\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@LegalVision_law\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Lloyd Edwards\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Estimated reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"7 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/business-structures\\\/overseas-start-business\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/business-structures\\\/overseas-start-business\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Lloyd Edwards\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/422b3afc36fee027869af8be12009387\"},\"headline\":\"I Live Overseas. How Do I Start a Business in the UK?\",\"datePublished\":\"2023-01-12T02:15:38+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-01T05:23:17+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/business-structures\\\/overseas-start-business\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":1363,\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/business-structures\\\/overseas-start-business\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/img.legalvision.com.au\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/4\\\/2022\\\/05\\\/24122229\\\/business-image-0522182.jpg\",\"keywords\":[\"small business\",\"medium business\",\"Companies House\",\"sole trader\",\"limited company\",\"foreign national\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Business Structuring Articles\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\"},{\"@type\":[\"WebPage\",\"FAQPage\"],\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/business-structures\\\/overseas-start-business\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/business-structures\\\/overseas-start-business\\\/\",\"name\":\"I Live Overseas. How Do I Start a UK Business? | LegalVision UK\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/business-structures\\\/overseas-start-business\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/business-structures\\\/overseas-start-business\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/img.legalvision.com.au\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/4\\\/2022\\\/05\\\/24122229\\\/business-image-0522182.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2023-01-12T02:15:38+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-01T05:23:17+00:00\",\"author\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/422b3afc36fee027869af8be12009387\"},\"description\":\"If you currently live overseas, it is still possible to start a new business in the UK. We explore the key legal considerations to note.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/business-structures\\\/overseas-start-business\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"mainEntity\":[{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/business-structures\\\/overseas-start-business\\\/#faq-question-1673489387726\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/business-structures\\\/overseas-start-business\\\/#faq-question-1673489399415\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/business-structures\\\/overseas-start-business\\\/#faq-question-1782883160630\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/business-structures\\\/overseas-start-business\\\/#faq-question-1782883167313\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/business-structures\\\/overseas-start-business\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/business-structures\\\/overseas-start-business\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/img.legalvision.com.au\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/4\\\/2022\\\/05\\\/24122229\\\/business-image-0522182.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/img.legalvision.com.au\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/4\\\/2022\\\/05\\\/24122229\\\/business-image-0522182.jpg\",\"width\":1132,\"height\":755,\"caption\":\"What Do I Need to Look Out for When Acquiring Another Business?\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/business-structures\\\/overseas-start-business\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Business Structuring Articles\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/category\\\/business-structures\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":3,\"name\":\"I Live Overseas. How Do I Start a Business in the UK?\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/\",\"name\":\"LegalVision UK\",\"description\":\"LegalVision is a commercial law firm in the UK with a commitment to innovation\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\"},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/422b3afc36fee027869af8be12009387\",\"name\":\"Lloyd Edwards\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/4\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/cropped-Lloyd-4688-scaled-1-96x96.jpg\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/4\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/cropped-Lloyd-4688-scaled-1-96x96.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/4\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/cropped-Lloyd-4688-scaled-1-96x96.jpg\",\"caption\":\"Lloyd Edwards\"},\"description\":\"Lloyd is a Trainee Solicitor in the Corporate and Commercial team at LegalVision.\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/author\\\/lloydedwards\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/business-structures\\\/overseas-start-business\\\/#faq-question-1673489387726\",\"name\":\"Do I need to be a resident to start a business in the UK?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"If you currently live overseas, starting your new business in the UK is still possible. Even if you are not a UK resident or national, there are no restrictions from starting a business in the UK.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/business-structures\\\/overseas-start-business\\\/#faq-question-1673489399415\",\"name\":\"Does my business need to have a physical address that is based in the UK?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"While there are no residency or nationality restrictions, your business must have a UK-registered address, even if you have an online business. You might choose to record the address of a friend, family member or business associate who is based in the UK. Alternatively, you can obtain a virtual office registered address for a small fee.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/business-structures\\\/overseas-start-business\\\/#faq-question-1782883160630\",\"name\":\"How long does it take to register a limited company in the UK from overseas?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The company registration process with Companies House typically takes 24 hours if you file online, though it can take longer if you submit a paper application. However, as an overseas applicant, you may need additional time to gather required documentation and set up your UK registered address, so it is advisable to allow several weeks for the complete process including opening business bank accounts.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/legalvision.co.uk\\\/business-structures\\\/overseas-start-business\\\/#faq-question-1782883167313\",\"name\":\"What ongoing costs should I expect when running a UK business from overseas?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Beyond the initial setup costs, you should budget for annual filing fees to Companies House (currently \u00a313 for online filing), accounting and legal fees, virtual office costs if applicable, business banking charges, and potential costs for professional services to ensure compliance. Corporation tax will also apply to limited companies based on profits, while sole traders pay income tax on their earnings.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"I Live Overseas. How Do I Start a UK Business? | LegalVision UK","description":"If you currently live overseas, it is still possible to start a new business in the UK. We explore the key legal considerations to note.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/","og_locale":"en_GB","og_type":"article","og_title":"I Live Overseas. How Do I Start a UK Business? | LegalVision UK","og_description":"If you currently live overseas, it is still possible to start a new business in the UK. We explore the key legal considerations to note.","og_url":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/","og_site_name":"LegalVision UK","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/LegalVision","article_published_time":"2023-01-12T02:15:38+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-07-01T05:23:17+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1132,"height":755,"url":"https:\/\/img.legalvision.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/24122229\/business-image-0522182.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Lloyd Edwards","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@LegalVision_law","twitter_site":"@LegalVision_law","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Lloyd Edwards","Estimated reading time":"7 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/"},"author":{"name":"Lloyd Edwards","@id":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/#\/schema\/person\/422b3afc36fee027869af8be12009387"},"headline":"I Live Overseas. How Do I Start a Business in the UK?","datePublished":"2023-01-12T02:15:38+00:00","dateModified":"2026-07-01T05:23:17+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/"},"wordCount":1363,"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/img.legalvision.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/24122229\/business-image-0522182.jpg","keywords":["small business","medium business","Companies House","sole trader","limited company","foreign national"],"articleSection":["Business Structuring Articles"],"inLanguage":"en-GB"},{"@type":["WebPage","FAQPage"],"@id":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/","url":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/","name":"I Live Overseas. How Do I Start a UK Business? | LegalVision UK","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/img.legalvision.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/24122229\/business-image-0522182.jpg","datePublished":"2023-01-12T02:15:38+00:00","dateModified":"2026-07-01T05:23:17+00:00","author":{"@id":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/#\/schema\/person\/422b3afc36fee027869af8be12009387"},"description":"If you currently live overseas, it is still possible to start a new business in the UK. We explore the key legal considerations to note.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/#breadcrumb"},"mainEntity":[{"@id":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/#faq-question-1673489387726"},{"@id":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/#faq-question-1673489399415"},{"@id":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/#faq-question-1782883160630"},{"@id":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/#faq-question-1782883167313"}],"inLanguage":"en-GB","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-GB","@id":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/img.legalvision.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/24122229\/business-image-0522182.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/img.legalvision.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/24122229\/business-image-0522182.jpg","width":1132,"height":755,"caption":"What Do I Need to Look Out for When Acquiring Another Business?"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Business Structuring Articles","item":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/category\/business-structures\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"I Live Overseas. How Do I Start a Business in the UK?"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/#website","url":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/","name":"LegalVision UK","description":"LegalVision is a commercial law firm in the UK with a commitment to innovation","potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-GB"},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/#\/schema\/person\/422b3afc36fee027869af8be12009387","name":"Lloyd Edwards","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-GB","@id":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/07\/cropped-Lloyd-4688-scaled-1-96x96.jpg","url":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/07\/cropped-Lloyd-4688-scaled-1-96x96.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/07\/cropped-Lloyd-4688-scaled-1-96x96.jpg","caption":"Lloyd Edwards"},"description":"Lloyd is a Trainee Solicitor in the Corporate and Commercial team at LegalVision.","url":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/author\/lloydedwards\/"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/#faq-question-1673489387726","name":"Do I need to be a resident to start a business in the UK?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"If you currently live overseas, starting your new business in the UK is still possible. Even if you are not a UK resident or national, there are no restrictions from starting a business in the UK.","inLanguage":"en-GB"},"inLanguage":"en-GB"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/#faq-question-1673489399415","name":"Does my business need to have a physical address that is based in the UK?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"While there are no residency or nationality restrictions, your business must have a UK-registered address, even if you have an online business. You might choose to record the address of a friend, family member or business associate who is based in the UK. Alternatively, you can obtain a virtual office registered address for a small fee.","inLanguage":"en-GB"},"inLanguage":"en-GB"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/#faq-question-1782883160630","name":"How long does it take to register a limited company in the UK from overseas?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The company registration process with Companies House typically takes 24 hours if you file online, though it can take longer if you submit a paper application. However, as an overseas applicant, you may need additional time to gather required documentation and set up your UK registered address, so it is advisable to allow several weeks for the complete process including opening business bank accounts.","inLanguage":"en-GB"},"inLanguage":"en-GB"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/business-structures\/overseas-start-business\/#faq-question-1782883167313","name":"What ongoing costs should I expect when running a UK business from overseas?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Beyond the initial setup costs, you should budget for annual filing fees to Companies House (currently \u00a313 for online filing), accounting and legal fees, virtual office costs if applicable, business banking charges, and potential costs for professional services to ensure compliance. Corporation tax will also apply to limited companies based on profits, while sole traders pay income tax on their earnings.","inLanguage":"en-GB"},"inLanguage":"en-GB"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/179112","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/api\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/api\/wp\/v2\/users\/13581"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/api\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=179112"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/179112\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":198626,"href":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/179112\/revisions\/198626"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/api\/wp\/v2\/media\/3241"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/api\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=179112"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/api\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=179112"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/legalvision.co.uk\/api\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=179112"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}