How Long Does It Take to Register a Company in the UK?

Generally speaking, the process to register a company in the UK is not overly complicated; however, the time this takes can vary considerably, depending on which method of registration has been used. Being able to understand these timelines is critical for entrepreneurs who want to set up their businesses efficiently.

This article will look at the different methods of registration, the timelines associated with each, and some tips to make sure the incorporation process goes smoothly.

Overview of Company Registration in the UK

Companies within the UK can register through different means, usually via:

• Online Registration
• Postal Registration
• Personal Registry

Each methodology contains its own timeline and requirements, which are explained below.

Online Registration

The easiest ways to register a company in the UK is to do it online. Still, how long does it really take? The online registration process is the fastest and most efficient way to incorporate a company. When you submit your application through Companies House or a reputable formation agent, you can expect:

• Processing Time - Applications generally take 24 hours. In most cases, approvals could come within some hours, especially if submitted in peak times- Tuesday to Thursday before noon- and with no errors.
• Requirements - The following would be required to fill out your online application:
  • Company name
  • Registered office address
  • Share class details
  • Details of directors and shareholders
  • Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code

This is even easier if you use an online formation agent, as most offer further assistance, check your application, and make any corrections necessary before submitting, which helps to avoid delays.

Postal Registration

If you apply to register your company by post, you can expect to have to wait even longer.

• Processing Time - It takes 8 to 10 days for applications which are sent through the post. You will need to fill in the form IN01, then send it, along with payment, to Companies House.
• Cost - It usually costs about £71, which is a bit higher compared to online registration.

It is slower for the following reasons:

• The delivery time using the post.
• The extra time it takes to be processed once Companies House receives your application.

In-Person Registration

Those who want to do things more directly can opt to register in person at Companies House.

• Processing Time - If you submit your application in person, before 3 PM on a working day, you can often receive your certificate of incorporation the same day. This is the fastest available option but requires you to go to a Companies House office directly.
• Cost - The cost is similar to online registration, although this may change with particular requirements or additional services requested.

Factors Affecting Registration Time

While the above timelines provide a general guideline, various factors would determine the duration of the process for registering a company in the UK, to wit: 

• Application Errors - The mistakes in your application can delay it. Some of the common issues involved are incorrect information or missing documents. Always double-check your application before submitting it.
• High Volume of Applications - There are times of the year when volumes may be higher, for instance, at the beginning of a new financial year, and this might lead to slower periods in Companies House.
• Name Approval Delays - If your name is too similar to another company name, or if it contains sensitive words, then that might flag the name for further scrutiny and thereby further delay the process of incorporation. Use our Company Name Availability checker to make sure that your company's name is unique.
• Check Name Availability – You must check if your desired name is available or not. To do so, you can utilise the company name availability checker provided by the Companies House or by us at The Company Registration.

Tips for Quick Registration

1. To ease the company registration process and to speed it up a little, do the following:

• Prepare All Required Information - Before your application, have all your documents and details ready. This includes personal information about directors and shareholders, the name of the proposed company, SIC codes, etc.
• Choose the Best Time to Apply - Companies House receives a lot more submissions on Mondays and Friday afternoons. The best processing times are achieved for mid-week submissions.
• Consider Using a Formation Agent - While it is one further cost using a formation agent, their skills and knowledge will prevent the common pitfalls and speed up the registration.

Conclusion

To recap then, if you are wondering how long it takes to register a company in the UK you can expect:

• On-line registrations taking 24 hours, with most registering in hours.
• Postal registrations taking about 8 to 10 days, which is far longer.
• on-site registrations could be approved within the same day if the submission is proper and on or before 3 PM.

Appropriate preparation with this understanding of timelines enables you to manage the company registration process better and hopefully get your business running as soon as possible.