Based in the Gulf or Arab world? You can own a UK company — entirely remotely

What can be done entirely remotely

• Incorporate a UK limited company
• Obtain a UTR number from HMRC
• Register for Corporation Tax
• Complete Director ID Verification (ACSP route)
• File annual accounts
• Submit Corporation Tax return
• File confirmation statement
• Open a digital business bank account (Wise, Revolut, Tide)
• Set up and run PAYE for employees
• Add or remove directors and shareholders
• Change your registered office address
• File at Companies House through an authorised agent

Guide by your country

Each country has its specifics — from the local accounting body, to the accepted ID document, to the double tax treaty.

Frequently asked questions

Can I own a UK company if I live outside the UK?

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Yes. There is no residency requirement to incorporate or own a UK limited company. Directors and shareholders can be based anywhere in the world. You will need a registered office address in England, Wales or Scotland, but that can be provided by a service like Fileminder.

Do I need to pay UK tax if I live in the UAE?

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Your UK company pays UK Corporation Tax on its UK profits — currently 19% for small companies. As an individual director living in the UAE, you are not UK resident for income tax purposes, so salary and dividends you receive from the company may not be subject to UK income tax. Whether UAE corporate tax (introduced in 2023) applies depends on how and where the company is managed. Confirm your position with a qualified adviser.

Do I need to visit the UK to run my company?

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No. Incorporating, filing accounts, submitting tax returns, managing payroll, verifying your director identity, and changing company details can all be done remotely through an authorised UK accountant and agent. Fileminder handles all of this without requiring you to visit the UK.

Can I open a UK bank account for my company without visiting the UK?

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Many UK banks require in-person branch visits and UK-issued documents, making them inaccessible for non-resident directors. However, several regulated e-money institutions and challenger banks — including Wise Business, Revolut Business, Tide, and Airwallex — offer UK business accounts to non-resident directors. These accounts provide UK sort code and account number and are accepted by most clients and payment processors. Fileminder can help you prepare your documents and identify the right provider.

What is Director ID Verification and do I need it?

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Identity verification became mandatory on 18 November 2025. New directors verify before appointment, while existing directors provide their personal code with the company's next confirmation statement during the transition. Non-resident directors can use GOV.UK One Login with a current biometric passport from any country or choose an authorised ACSP such as Fileminder.

What annual filings does my UK company need?

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Every UK limited company must file: (1) a Confirmation Statement with Companies House once a year (fee: £50); (2) Annual Accounts with Companies House within 9 months of the accounting year end; (3) a Corporation Tax return (CT600) with HMRC within 12 months of the accounting year end; and (4) Corporation Tax payment within 9 months and 1 day of the accounting year end. For companies with employees, PAYE and National Insurance reporting is also required. Dormant companies still need to file accounts and the confirmation statement.