5 Best Company Formation & Registration Agents in the UK

2025-03-31

8 minute read

Statrys placeholder

Top Company Formation Agents in the UK in 2025

Starting a business comes with enough challenges — registering it shouldn’t be one of them.

A good company formation agent can take care of the paperwork, make sure everything’s filed correctly, and free you up to focus on what matters most: building your business.

That said, there are a lot of options out there — and not all of them are great. So I did the digging and pulled together 5 of the top-rated company formation agents in the UK right now.

In this article, I’ll share what they offer, what they charge, and who they’re best for. 

Let’s take a look!

Top Company Formation Services Comparison

Company Formation Agent Key Packages Price Range
1st Formations
  • Prestige Package: Company documents, business address, phone answering
  • All-Inclusive Package: Adds VAT, PAYE, secretary service
  • Non-Residents: WorldFirst UK business banking referral, Covent Garden business addresses
Packages range from GBP 52.99 to GBP 99.99 + VAT. Companies House fee is included.
ANNA Money
  • Basic: Registration only
  • Business Secretary: Admin tools, virtual office, VAT & PAYE registration
  • Total Support: Includes tax services and full support
GBP 19.00 to GBP 395.00/year + VAT (Companies House fee included)
Icon Offices
  • Virtual Office Package: Free UK LTD company formation, free UK business bank accounts with cash rewards, and mail handling included
  • Company Incorporation Package: UK Ltd company formation, VAT registration, UK VoIP landline, call answering, UK virtual mobile
GBP 12.87 to GBP 90.76/quarter (VAT and Companies House fee included), or

One-time fee: GBP 52.99 incl. VAT (if using your own address).
BusinAssist
  • One-day incorporation service
  • Virtual office package with an option to create a unique address
  • Assist in opening a bank account for both UK and non-UK residents
Starting from GBP 0.88/week or GBP 45.76/year.

If using your own address, GBP 0.99 + GBP 50 (one-time fee).
Mint Formations
  • Sole Trader: Name check, tax registration
  • Premium: Office address, VAT, accountant consultation
  • International: UK address, VAT, domain, banking help
GBP 4.99 to GBP 549 + VAT (Companies House fee not included)
exclamation-red

Disclaimer: All product information is accurate as of March 2025. For the latest details, please visit the provider’s website directly. The key features listed for each package are highlights only, and more features may be included.

1

1st Formations

Screenshot of 1st Formations homepage
pin-red

Recommended For: Non-residents setting up a UK company

Founded in 2014, 1st Formations is one of the leading company formation agents in the UK, having assisted in the formation of over 1 million companies. The company specialises in registering limited companies and providing expert company governance services. It offers online company registration services to both UK-based and international customers.

1st Formations Key Packages and Fees

1st Formations offers a wide range of company incorporation and registration packages, including options for private limited companies (LTD), non-residents, ecommerce businesses, companies limited by guarantee, limited liability partnerships (LLPs), and public limited companies (PLCs).

The most affordable option is the Digital Package, priced at GBP 52.99, which includes all essential documents in digital format. Let’s take a look at the other key packages.

Company Formation Package What’s Included Fee
Prestige Package
  • Email and printed copies of Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum & Articles of Association, and Share Certificate(s)
  • Registered office address in Covent Garden (12 months)
  • Filing of the First Confirmation Statement
  • Business telephone number and answering service
  • Optional free business bank account with NatWest, Tide, and more
  • Free .com or .co.uk domain name
GBP 89.99
All-Inclusive Package
  • Everything in the Prestige Package
  • PAYE and VAT registration
  • Free 4 hours of meeting room hire
  • GDPR compliance package
  • Full company secretary service
GBP 99.99
Non-Residents Package
  • Online company registration
  • WorldFirst UK business banking referral
  • 3 Covent Garden address services
  • Free worldwide delivery of company documents
  • Free online company manager
  • 3 day free trial of Shopify + 3 months for GBP 1/month
GBP 149.99
yellow lightbulb

Note: 1st Formations package fees are excluded VAT but are inclusive of GBP 50 Companies House fee.

Customer Support Channels

1st Formations offers customer support via live chat, email, and phone at 020 3897 2233, available from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm UK time.

For email support, you can fill out the contact form on their website, and the team will get back to you during business hours. The contact page also includes answers to the most common questions, so you might find what you need without having to wait for a reply.

While the website is easy to navigate, the live chat is only available during UK business hours, which might be inconvenient if you’re in a different time zone. Moreover, the phone number provided is a UK line, so it seems the only practical way to reach 1st Formations as non-residents is through the contact form. 

Review Ratings from Review Sites

Overall, 1st Formations has impressive ratings across major review platforms, with many customers praising the professionalism of their service. Here are the review ratings as of March 2025:

1st Formations Pros & Cons

A check depicting pros

Pros of 1st Formations

  • Strong reputation, with over 20,000 Trustpilot reviews with a 4.8/5 score.
  • Transparent pricing with Companies House fee included upfront
  • Flexible pricing package for all types of entrepreneurs
  • Fast online registration process

A cross depicting cons

Cons of 1st Formations

  • Some features that are free with competitors (e.g. Confirmation Statement filing) are only included in higher-tier packages.

2

ANNA Money

Screenshot of ANNA homepage
pin-red

Recommended For: UK-based entrepreneurs who want an all-in-one setup

ANNA, which stands for Absolutely No Nonsense Admin, is an all-in-one platform offering an award-winning business account, bookkeeping software, tax tools, and company registration services targeting small businesses in the UK. It provides a clear and user-friendly way to handle financial admin, from starting your company to staying compliant as you grow.

ANNA Money Key Packages and Fees

ANNA Money offers 3 UK company registration packages to choose from.

Company Formation Package What’s Included Fee
Basic
  • Company registration only
GBP 19
Business Secretary
  • Free company registration
  • Pay-as-you-go ANNA business account
  • Basic admin service (.xls VAT filing and accounting software sync)
  • Virtual office
  • VAT and PAYE registration
  • Change of company name and other details
  • Confirmation statement
GBP 119/year + VAT (Companies House fee included)
Total Support
  • Everything in the Business Secretary plan
  • Business plan for your business account
  • Company cancellation cover
  • ANNA +Taxes service covering payroll, VAT filing, and corporation tax
GBP 395/year + VAT (Companies House fee included)

ANNA also offers individual services that can be purchased as standalone add-ons to the Basic package, allowing you to customise it to your needs. These include virtual office addresses starting from GBP 15 per month, VAT registration at a one-off fee of GBP 39.90, and a director management service (adding or removing company directors) for GBP 29.90.

green-lightbulb

Tip: Learn more about VAT and PAYE in this guide to the UK business tax system and rates.

Customer Support Channels

ANNA Money primarily handles customer support through the mobile app, which is convenient for users managing their business on the go. One notable feature is their 24/7 in-app chat support, which is something that sets them apart from competitors that typically only offer help from a real person during office hours.

If you just need to ask about their packages or services, you can also reach them by email at hello@anna.money. While they don’t provide a phone number, the email appears to be consistently monitored, and replies are typically received in a short time.

Review Ratings from Review Sites

ANNA Money receives mostly positive feedback on review platforms, with many users highlighting the responsiveness of the support team and the simplicity of the app, online application, and onboarding process.

Ratings were last updated in March 2025.

ANNA Money Pros & Cons

A check depicting pros

Pros of ANNA Money

  • Offers more than just company formation, combining business banking, admin tools, and tax support in a single platform
  • Flexible add-on services allow users to customise the Basic package without committing to a full subscription
  • Strong focus on automation and time-saving features, especially for VAT filing and tax submissions

A cross depicting cons

Cons of ANNA Money

  • Higher-tier packages are significantly more expensive than competitors
  • Support is primarily in-app, with no phone contact and limited external support options

3

Icon Offices

screenshot of icon office's home page
pin-red

Recommended For: UK-based entrepreneurs looking for flexible office space and company formation services

Founded in 2016, Icon Offices is a provider of flexible office space solutions, offering services such as virtual offices, co-working spaces, and private office rentals. Their offerings are designed for entrepreneurs, startups, and businesses seeking professional workspaces without the long-term commitment and overhead of traditional office leases.

Additionally, they offer company formation services, business addresses, and other business support, particularly catering to both UK-based and international clients.

Icon Offices Key Packages and Fees

Icon Offices' primary services are virtual office, which can be combined with company incorporation or chosen separately. They offer a range of options to suit different business needs, from basic mail handling to full-service office solutions. Below, we’ve outlined their key packages and pricing.

Package What’s Included Fee
Bronze
  • Office number and address
  • Mail handling (up to 10 items per month)
  • Free UK bank accounts with up to £250 cash reward (subject to approval)
  • Proof of address
GBP 12.87/quarter + GBP 43.99 for company registration (one-time)
Silver
  • Everything in Bronze, plus:
  • Scan and email your mail
  • Forward your mail via Post for free
  • Print & post option
  • UK VoIP line (250 minutes per month)
GBP 38.87/quarter + GBP 43.99 for company registration (one-time)
Gold
  • Everything in Silver, plus:
  • Free UK private limited company formation
  • 24/7 call answering in the name of your company
GBP 64.87/quarter
Platinum
  • Everything in Gold, plus:
  • Virtual mobile number with free call divert & SMS to email
  • Company logo creation
  • 2 free domains (.co.uk & .uk) for 1 year
GBP 90.87/quarter
UK Company Formation
  • 1-day company incorporation
  • All company formation documents sent to you by email
  • Assist with UK business bank account opening
  • Up to GBP 250 cash reward when you open a UK bank account with their partners
GBP 52.99 incl. VAT (use your own address), or

GBP 43.99 incl. VAT + GBP 0.99/week for renting an address and mail handling service

Customer Support Channels

Icon Offices provides multiple customer support channels to assist with inquiries and issues. For more immediate assistance, they offer WhatsApp messaging and live chat on their website, allowing for quick, real-time communication. Additionally, their customer service line, +44 (0)30 30 40 1230, is available for phone support. However, these channels are available during business hours, Monday to Friday, between 10 AM and 6 PM UK time.

If you need support outside of those hours, you can either send a message via WhatsApp or email your queries to info@iconoffices.com.

Review Ratings from Review Sites

Overall, clients provide positive feedback on Icon Offices, emphasising their quick and smooth process and the responsiveness of their customer support.

Icon Offices Pros & Cons

A check depicting pros

Pros of Icon Offices

  • Flexible virtual office packages with mail handling, company formation, and business addresses.
  • No long-term commitment with quarterly billing

A cross depicting cons

Cons of Rapid Formations

  • Extra cost for company formation in lower-tier packages

4

BusinAssist

screenshot of BusinAssist home page
pin-red

Recommend For: SMEs and startups looking for an affordable incorporation service

BusinAssist is a business support service provider aimed at helping small businesses and startups with essential administrative tasks. Their services include company registration, bookkeeping, virtual office packages, and bank account setups for both UK and non-UK residents.

BusinAssist focuses on offering affordable and streamlined solutions, allowing entrepreneurs to manage their business operations effectively without the complexities or high costs often associated with larger service providers.

BusinAssist Key Packages and Fees

Company Formation Package What’s Included Fee
Company Formation With Privacy
  • 1-day company formation
  • Registered address for your company
  • Assist with UK bank account opening
  • Virtual office for your company with mail handling service
Starting from GBP 0.88/week or GBP 45.76/year
Formation Only (use your own address)
  • Company registration
  • Help opening a business account with partner banks
GBP 0.99 + GBP 50 (Companies House fee)

Customer Support Channels

BusinAssist provides several ways to get in touch for assistance:

  • Phone (UK): 03030401239
  • Phone (International): +44 3030401239.
  • Email: For inquiries or support, email info@BusinAssist.com.
  • WhatsApp and Live chat.

Customer support is available Monday to Friday, from 9 AM to 5 PM UK time, excluding public holidays in the UK.

Review Ratings from Review Sites

BusinAssist has a 4.6/5 rating from 45 reviews on Trustpilot. Customers commonly note the efficiency and affordability of the service, as well as the helpfulness of the customer support team.

BusinAssist Pros & Cons

A check depicting pros

 Pros of BusinAssist

  • Clear service packages with no additional charges for basic offerings.
  • The only UK provider offering the option to create your own bespoke virtual office address.
  • 14-day money-back guarantee

A cross depicting cons

Cons of BusinAssist

  • Limited services for larger businesses or complex needs.

5

Mint Formations

Screenshot of Mint Formations homepage
pin-red

Recommended For: Startups and sole traders looking for flexible registration options

Lastly, Mint Formations is a company formation agent to consider when setting up a new company in the UK. Alongside their incorporation packages, they offer additional business services such as registered address services in central London, virtual office service options, web design, logo creation, and more. They can also assist with company formation through the phone, providing an alternative to online registration.

Mint Formations Key Packages and Fees

Mint Formations offers a wide range of packages for different types of companies, including sole traders, limited companies, and limited liability partnerships. They also provide tailored packages for non-UK residents, including options for LLPs and companies limited by guarantee.

They accept various payment methods, including Visa credit, debit, and purchasing cards, as well as Maestro and Mastercard®.

Company Formation Package What’s Included Fee
Sole Trader Registration Service
  • Sole trader name check
  • Fast registration within 24 hours on working days
  • Self Assessment tax registration
  • Ongoing sole trader support
  • Free consultation with an accountant
GBP 29.00 (+VAT)
Premium Package
  • Free business account (if eligible)
  • Digital and printed copies of company documents
  • Web authentication code
  • Free business startup and marketing guides
  • Free consultation with an accountant
  • Free registered office address (London HA4) and director service address
  • Corporate hijack protection
  • VAT registration for your new company if required
GBP 49 plus Companies Registration Fee
International Package
  • UK limited company
  • London registered office
  • London business address
  • Free .co.uk domain name
  • VAT registration if required
  • Free accountant consultation
  • Help with banking options
GBP 114.99 plus Companies Registration Fee

Customer Support Channels

Mint Formations offers various contact channels, including an online contact form, chat support, and a phone line at 020 7112 8684.

Their support team is available on weekdays from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm, which is especially convenient for entrepreneurs in different time zones or those with busy schedules, giving you a wider window to get in touch, even after typical business hours.

Review Ratings from Review Sites

As a relatively new service provider, Mint Formations has fewer reviews compared to more established competitors, but most of the feedback highlights positive experiences with their customer support.

Mint Formations Pros & Cons

A check depicting pros

Pros of Mint Formations

  • Offers phone-based company registration, providing an alternative for users less familiar with online forms
  • Long support hours on weekdays (9 am to 9 pm), ideal for busy entrepreneurs

A cross depicting cons

Cons of Mint Formations

  • Preferred Knightsbridge Central London address comes at an additional cost.

Why It's Worth Registering Your Company Through an Agent

Registering a company with Companies House may involve simple steps, but those steps can easily go wrong if you are not familiar with specific terms or the UK business landscape. For foreign entrepreneurs and non-residents, navigating the legal and administrative process can be especially complex and time-consuming, often taking time and focus away from other priorities.

Here are 3 key reasons why using a company formation agent is a smart choice:

  1. They handle everything on your behalf. Company formation agents manage all the paperwork, ensuring everything is completed accurately and submitted on time. They are experts with extensive experience in UK business laws, knowing exactly what’s required to ensure your company registration is accurate and compliant.
  2. They save you time: Instead of dealing with unfamiliar legal terms or chasing down documents, you can focus on your business goals while the agent handles the admin. It’s especially useful if you’re setting up a company from abroad or managing multiple tasks at once.
  3. They offer additional services: Many agents provide extras like VAT registration and business address setup and may even help with filing your tax return, making it easier to establish and operate your business in the UK.
green book

Starting a business as a foreigner? Read our guide to starting a business in the UK to learn about eligibility, visa options, and business taxes.

When You Might Not Need a Company Formation Agent

Using a formation agent can save time and reduce stress, but it's not always necessary. If you're comfortable navigating the Companies House website, understand the registration process, and don’t need extras like a business address or VAT registration, you can register your company directly by yourself. 

This route may be suitable if:

  • You're setting up a simple limited company structure
  • You have previous experience registering companies
  • You don't require additional services like a registered office and UK telephone number

Doing it yourself can be quick and cost-effective in straightforward cases, especially for UK residents familiar with the system.

Final Note

Now that we have explored the top options for company formation and registration agents, the next step for you is to pick one. Choosing the right company formation agent depends on your business type, budget, and the level of support you need. Whether you're a non-resident, a sole trader, or launching a startup, look for transparent pricing, useful add-on services, and customer support that fits your working hours. A good agent should make the process simple, not more complicated.

Register your Company in Hong Kong

One package, all included. Everything you need to get your business started.

10% discount promotion for Statrys company registration service in hong kong

FAQs

What is a company formation agent?

A company formation agent is a service provider that helps individuals and businesses register a company with Companies House. They often handle the paperwork, ensure compliance, and may offer additional services like VAT registration or business address setup.

How much does it cost to use a company formation agent in the UK?

Is it faster to register a company through a company formation agent?

Can a foreign entrepreneur use a UK company formation agent?

Is it mandatory to use a company formation agent?

;