Last updated: 31 August 2026
WHAT IS COMPANY FORMATION?
Company formation is the process of legally incorporating a business. Once incorporated as a limited company or LLP, it becomes a separate legal entity with its own rights and liabilities.
THE PROCESS
A company is incorporated by submitting the required details to Companies House. The information needed depends on the company type, but for a straightforward private limited company the process can usually be completed online.
If you are ready to start, our Northern Ireland company formation service explains the options and lets you begin your application.
WHAT IS NEEDED?
For a typical private limited company you will need:
- A company name
- A registered office address in the company’s UK jurisdiction
- At least one director
- At least one shareholder
- Details of the company’s share capital and business activity
If you need a Belfast address for a Northern Ireland company, you can add our Belfast registered office service during or after formation.
WHAT YOU’LL RECEIVE
Once Companies House accepts the incorporation, the company receives a certificate of incorporation confirming its company number and date of formation. The company will also have its incorporation documents, including its memorandum and articles of association.
NEED HELP FORMING A COMPANY?
Our Belfast team has been helping clients form Northern Ireland companies since 1994. See our company formation options or contact us if you are unsure which structure is right for you.
This article is for general information only and reflects the position at the date it was last updated. It does not constitute legal, tax, accounting or other professional advice and should not be relied upon as such. Fees, rules and deadlines may change. You should seek advice from a suitably qualified professional before acting on anything covered here.