Introduction to setting up a UK branch
Foreign investors looking to establish a branch company in the UK can benefit from a strong economic environment and a positive approach to foreign investment. The process of setting up a UK branch must be done in conjunction with the UK Companies Act 2006 which regulates company law. Although the UK generally favours foreign investment, there may be some restrictions for countries outside of the European Economic Area (EEA).
What are the formalities regarding UK branches?
- A certified copy of the parent company’s Certificate of Incorporation
- A certified copy of the parent company’s Certificate of Good Standing
- A certified copy of Memorandum & Articles of Association of the parent company
- If the parent company is required to prepare and deliver accounts under its domicile law a copy of the parent company’s latest set of accounts are required
These documents must be submitted to the Companies House in order to register the British branch.
All documents must be notarised by a lawyer and translated into English by a certified translator if the originals are presented in a language other than English.
What are the accounting requirements for a UK Branch?
The branch must apply to HMRC to register for VAT and PAYE taxation. Quarterly VAT returns and annual tax returns must be filed.
Accounts of the branch are not required by Companies House; however the accounting requirements for the parent company differ depending on whether the company was incorporated in an EEA or non-EEA state.
If the parent company is required to prepare, disclose and deliver its accounting documents under its national domicile law then the same applies in the UK and must be filed with Companies House. No audit is required unless stated under the parent law.
For further information on accountancy and tax rates in the UK please contact our partners Accountancy In Europe.
What office facilities are available when registering a branch?
The following types of office are available in the UK:
- Virtual offices, in either Central London or Hertfordshire, provide off-site communication including telephone, fax and mail forwarding facilities
- Registered offices provide a correspondence address for the branch
- Serviced offices include all necessary business services and are ready for immediate occupation by the branch
Branch formation packages
Our branch formation packages include services such as branch registration, bank account set up, and VAT registration, so you can leave the complete formation procedure up to our accomplished team.
We are experts on the requirements of European formation and our wealth of experience can also support you in setting up multiple branches. You can enjoy the advantages that come with registering multiple branches, i.e. client security and further increased exposure, while we organise everything for you.
For further information please send an enquiry or contact us using the form below.