Company Formation in the UK and US, Done Remotely
Start a UK private limited company or a US LLC from anywhere, including Saudi Arabia and the GCC. We guide you through registration, compliance and the practical steps to start trading.
Yes. Non-residents can own and direct a UK limited company and can form a US LLC without living in either country. A UK company needs a UK registered office address, and its directors must verify their identity with Companies House. A US LLC needs a registered agent in its formation state and an EIN from the IRS for banking and tax.
UK limited company or US LLC: a side-by-side comparison
Both structures let you trade internationally with limited liability. Here is how they differ in practice.
| Factor | UK LTD | US LLC |
|---|---|---|
| Registered with | Companies House | Secretary of State of your chosen state, such as Wyoming, Delaware or New Mexico |
| Government filing fee | £100 online (from 1 February 2026) | Varies by state |
| Typical timeframe | Often within 24 hours online once details and ID checks are complete | Same day to a few weeks, depending on the state |
| Local address | UK registered office address required | Registered agent in the formation state required |
| Identity checks | Directors and people with significant control must verify their identity with Companies House | Owner details provided at formation; EIN application with the IRS |
| Ongoing filings | Annual confirmation statement (£50), annual accounts and a Corporation Tax return | State annual report or fee (varies), plus federal filings such as Form 5472 for many foreign-owned single-member LLCs |
| Often chosen for | UK and European customers and UK credibility | US customers, US payment platforms and marketplaces |
Compare the details on our UK LTD formation and US LLC formation pages. This information is general guidance, not legal or tax advice.
Everything you need to get your company running
Registration is only the first step. We help with the practical setup that follows.
Company registration
Name checks, articles, share structure and filing with Companies House or the state.
Registered address & agent
A compliant UK registered office or US registered agent arranged for your company.
Identity verification support
Step-by-step guidance for Companies House identity verification for directors and PSCs.
Business banking guidance
Help preparing applications for business bank and fintech accounts.
EIN & tax registration
EIN applications for US LLCs and guidance on UK tax registration steps.
Compliance reminders
Reminders for confirmation statements, annual reports and key deadlines.
Built for founders in Saudi Arabia, the GCC and worldwide
Many entrepreneurs in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and across the GCC use a UK or US company to sell internationally, accept payments through global gateways and sell on platforms such as Amazon US, eBay and Shopify.
- Fully remote process, no travel required
- A clear checklist of the documents you need
- Help connecting your new company to a website, payments and marketing
- One partner for company setup and your full digital launch
Once you are registered, we can build your website or online store and start your marketing.
How company formation works with Sofcore
Six simple steps from decision to a company that is ready to trade.
Choose your structure
We help you decide between a UK LTD and a US LLC based on your customers and goals.
Name & jurisdiction
Company name availability checked and, for LLCs, the right state selected.
Documents & ID
You share passport and address details and complete identity verification.
Registration
We file your application and send you the official incorporation documents.
Tax IDs
EIN for US LLCs and guidance on UK tax registration.
Banking & launch
Banking applications, website, payments and marketing to start trading.
Company formation services we offer
Choose the jurisdiction that fits your business, or ask us to recommend one.
UK LTD Company Formation
Incorporate a UK private limited company with Companies House.
Explore UK LTD Company Formation →US LLC Formation
Form an LLC in Wyoming, Delaware or another US state, with EIN support.
Explore US LLC Formation →Non-Resident Company Formation
Start a UK or US company from Saudi Arabia, the GCC or anywhere abroad.
Explore Non-Resident Company Formation →Explore more Sofcore services:
Frequently asked questions about Company Formation
How long does it take to register a UK company?
Online applications to Companies House are often processed within 24 hours once all details and identity verification are complete. A same-day service is also available for a higher government fee.
How much does it cost to form a UK limited company?
The Companies House online incorporation fee is £100 from 1 February 2026. Our service fee for preparation, filing and setup support is quoted upfront before you start.
Which US state is best for an LLC?
Wyoming and New Mexico are popular for simplicity and low running costs, while Delaware is often preferred by startups planning to raise venture capital. The right choice depends on your goals.
Do I need to travel to the UK or US?
No. The whole process can be completed remotely, including identity verification and, in many cases, opening a business account with a fintech provider.
Do US LLCs still need to file a BOI report?
Under FinCEN’s current rules, companies created in the United States are exempt from federal beneficial ownership (BOI) reporting, while foreign companies registered to do business in the US may still need to file. Rules can change, so we confirm the latest position when you form.
Is this legal or tax advice?
No. We provide company formation and setup support. For tax planning and accounting, speak to a qualified accountant in the relevant country; we are happy to work alongside them.
Ready to start your UK or US company?
Tell us where your customers are and we will recommend the right structure and next steps.