Incorporate your limited company in England with our easy 5-minute application, get incorporation certificate & enjoy a professional office address.

To register a company with a certificate of incorporation, you must file the articles of incorporation with the appropriate state or national authority (like the Companies House in the UK), which will then issue the certificate once the company is legally formed. The process typically involves choosing a business name, appointing directors, and submitting a formal application with the required company details to create a separate legal entity.

To set up a company with a Certificate of Incorporation using the IN01 form, you must first complete the IN01 application for Companies House with details about the company, its officers, and share capital. After submitting the form online or by post, Companies House will review the application and, if approved, issue the certificate, which legally validates the company’s existence. The process involves gathering the necessary information for the IN01 form, which includes selecting a company name, address, and officers, and then filing the completed form with the required fee.

Form INO1 is the UK government form used to register a new limited company, detailing the company’s name, address, officers, and share capital. To incorporate a startup, you must complete and submit this form to Companies House (either online or by mail) along with other required documents like the Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association. This process legally establishes the company and provides it with a unique company registration number.

The official company application form is the primary document used to start the company formation process. It serves as the formal request to authorities for registration, containing key details about the company like its name, directors, and subscribers. Submitting this form, along with required documents and fees, initiates the formation process that ultimately leads to the issuance of a Certificate of Incorporation.

To file an incorporation Form IN01, log in to the Companies House online service, select official form and click on the option to file an IN01 form. Coddan’s e-filing portal is directly integrated with Companies House, enabling you to file business incorporations directly from the platform through our API. This automation simplifies your filing process, ensuring prompt and accurate submissions to the UK registry.

For those seeking a more efficient process, Coddan’s e-filing portal offers a seamless integration with Companies House through our advanced API. This integration allows you to complete your business incorporation directly from our user-friendly platform, eliminating the need for separate submissions. Our automated system not only simplifies your filing experience but also ensures that your submission is prompt and accurately processed by the UK registry.

By utilizing Coddan’s services, you can save valuable time and reduce the chance of errors, making the incorporation process smoother and more reliable. Integrating with the Companies House API allows you to file business incorporations directly from your platform by using an API to programmatically submit the necessary information, which is processed through the government's gateway. Use the API to submit all required details, such as company name, officer information, and share capital, to start the incorporation process. 

Integrating a direct business incorporation system through an API involves establishing a connection with the appropriate government registry, such as Companies House. This integration allows businesses to submit incorporation documents electronically, streamlining the registration process. By utilizing this API, companies can enhance efficiency, reduce processing times, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, all while providing a seamless user experience for entrepreneurs looking to start their ventures.

You can form a company online and receive a certificate of incorporation by using a government portal or a third-party online service, which involves providing company details, appointing a registered agent, and submitting an online registration form along with the required fees. After the relevant authority approves the application, you will be issued a certificate of incorporation, confirming the company’s legal existence.

The IN01 Form is used to set up a corporation, requiring details of a limited company, directors, secretary and a registered office address. You can easily establish a company online and secure a certificate of incorporation by utilizing a government portal or a reputable third-party online service. This process typically involves several key steps. First, you will need to provide detailed information about your company, including its name, business structure (such as LLC, corporation, or partnership), and the nature of its activities.

Next, you must appoint a registered agent, who is responsible for receiving legal documents and official correspondence on behalf of the company. This agent must have a physical address in the state where you are incorporating.

After gathering all the necessary information, you will complete and submit an online registration form along with the required filing fees, which can vary depending on the jurisdiction.

Once the appropriate authority reviews and approves your application, you will be issued a certificate of incorporation. This document serves as legal proof of your company’s existence and includes essential details such as the company’s name, date of incorporation, and certificate number. It is an important step in officially establishing your business entity and allowing you to operate legally. The UK Company Registration Certificate shows when your business was first registered and incorporated with Companies House. Our experts can prepare and submit articles of association, arrange the incorporation meetings with notaries, provide certificate of incorporation and more.

Steps for online company formation:

1. Choose a company name:
   Check if your desired name is available and meets the legal requirements.
2. Gather necessary information:
   Collect details for directors and shareholders, including names, addresses, and dates of birth.
3. Prepare company documents:
   Draft the Memorandum and Articles of Association, which are the foundational documents for your company.
4. Appoint a registered agent:
   Secure a registered agent with a physical address in the state or country where you are incorporating, if required.
5. Complete and file the online form:
   Fill out the official online incorporation form with all the required information and submit it through the appropriate government portal or a third-party service.
6. Pay the filing fees:
   Submit the required fees, which can vary depending on the location and type of business.
7. Receive your certificate:
   Once the application is approved, the government or relevant authority will issue the official certificate of incorporation.

Documents and details you will need:

• Proposed company name (with at least two alternatives).
• Information on directors and shareholders (name, address, date of birth, nationality, occupation).
• Registered office address.
• Memorandum and Articles of Association.
• Identity and address proofs for directors (e.g., passport, driver’s license, utility bill).
• Scanned passport-sized photographs.
• Proof of registered office address.

To establish a company with a certificate of incorporation online in England, you must register with Companies House, typically through an online application. You’ll need to choose a unique company name, provide director and shareholder information, and pay the required fee. The online process is designed to be straightforward, with the certificate being available digitally within 24-48 hours after registration is complete.

If you require an authenticated copy of your Certificate of Incorporation for international purposes, Coddan CPM is ready to help. We can access your document digitally from Companies House, create a certified copy, and manage the notarisation and apostille process, guaranteeing the document’s validity for use abroad.

You cannot register a company and get an apostilled certificate in one online step; they are two separate processes. First, you must register your company online with Companies House via the GOV.UK website to receive a certificate of incorporation. Then, to get an apostille for that certificate, you can use an online service provider or go through the UK Legalisation Office (via the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office) to submit the original or a certified copy of your certificate, a solicitor’s certificate, and pay the required fees.

To have a certificate of incorporation notarized in London, you must first register your company with Companies House, which is the official government body responsible for company registrations in the UK. Once your registration is successful, you will receive the certificate of incorporation, an important document that confirms your company's legal status.

After getting the certificate, the next step is to have it notarized by a qualified notary public in London. This professional will verify the authenticity of the document and confirm your identity. Typically, the notary will download a copy of your certificate directly from the Companies House website to ensure its validity. During the notarization process, the notary will either witness you signing the document or will certify the authenticity of the certificate itself.

For those intending to use the notarized certificate internationally, an additional step may be required. You may need to get an apostille from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). An apostille certifies the authenticity of the notarization and allows the document to be recognized in countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention.

Coddan legalisation service can help you with this process, which includes obtaining a certified copy from Companies House and submitting it for legalisation. Alternatively, you can send the certified document to the FCDO yourself to get an apostille, which is a certificate that authenticates the document for use in other countries.

After the apostille is attached by the FCDO, some countries may require further legalisation at their embassy or consulate. A legalisation service can handle this final step for you, which involves submitting the document to the relevant embassy or consulate on your behalf.

— Same-day company registration & notarisation service in London —
You can achieve same-day company registration with a Certificate of Incorporation by using a Companies House express service or a formation agent, and then use a same-day notary service in London to notarise the document. Notarisation of the certificate itself can often be completed on the same day you provide the document, but any additional steps like apostille legalization will take longer.
The notary will verify your identity and notarise the document, which can often be completed on the spot. If the certificate requires an apostille for use abroad, the notary will submit it for you, and this additional step will take longer than one day.

A notarized Certificate of Incorporation (CoI) is essential for businesses that operate globally. It acts as verification of your company’s legal standing. Whether you are expanding into international markets, entering legal contracts, or establishing partnerships overseas, a notarized CoI is frequently necessary.

We specialize in notarizing Certificates of Incorporation and provide same-day services for urgent requests. For apostille services, we offer a premium next-day option or a standard service that takes 3-5 business days.

Our skilled notaries are knowledgeable about the legal requirements for notarizing certificates of incorporation, ensuring that your documents comply with the necessary standards for international acceptance.

Do You Need an Apostille for a Certificate of Incorporation?
Certain international entities may require UK companies to provide a certificate of incorporation along with an apostille certificate.

When you utilize this service, our notary public will verify your certificate of incorporation and forward it to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) for the apostille to be attached. This apostille adds an extra layer of verification, confirming the document’s authenticity.

By relying on us for the apostille of your certificate of incorporation, you can confidently engage in international business with the appropriate documentation. Validating your CoI builds trust with foreign partners and ensures adherence to the legal requirements of the countries in which you operate.

Why Opt for Our Services to Notarize Your Documents?
Here’s how we simplify the apostille process to ensure it is straightforward, quick, and accessible:

1. Seamless Communication:
   We attentively listen to your requirements and respond swiftly via email or inquiry, often within minutes.
2. Clear Solutions:
   We explain the process and offer an effective plan to obtain your apostille promptly.
3. Dependable Delivery:
   We honor our promises and provide exactly what you need with minimal inconvenience.
4. Need It Fast??
   We frequently finalize your apostille the very next day! We recognize the significance of deadlines and strive to meet them diligently.

We provide a comprehensive mobile notary service and can meet you at various locations. Many tasks can also be managed remotely—we’ll advise you on the best method for your particular situation. Whether you are located in the UK or overseas, we are prepared to support you throughout the apostille process. We are committed to delivering outstanding service and surpassing your expectations.

In the United Kingdom, documents from Companies House play a crucial role in the legal and administrative structure that regulates businesses. Whether you are in the process of incorporating a company, implementing significant changes, or submitting annual reports, it is vital to ensure that these documents are authentic and compliant.

In the United Kingdom, a company can be registered in England and Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland. The registration process can be managed by the following:

• Registrar of Companies for England and Wales.
• Registrar of Companies for Scotland.
• Registrar of Companies for Northern Ireland.
• If you intend to use your Companies House document outside of the UK, you may need to obtain notarisation, an apostille from the FCDO, and consular legalisation.

Our specialized notary public services focus on the notarisation and legalisation of Companies House documents, streamlining the process and ensuring legal compliance for your business requirements.

What are Companies House Documents?
Companies House is the government agency in the UK tasked with maintaining the official register of companies, which includes:

1. Company Incorporation Documents:
   These are the documents that establish a company’s legal existence, comprising the Memorandum and Articles of Association.
2. Annual Accounts:
   Companies must submit their annual financial statements to Companies House.
3. Annual Confirmation Statements:
   This provides a snapshot of the company’s information, including details about directors, shareholders, and share capital.
4. Change of Company Details:
   These documents pertain to any changes in the company’s structure, directors, registered office, or share structure.
5. Dissolution and Liquidation Documents:
   These are required when a company is being closed or is undergoing a winding-up process.

The Significance of Notarised and Legalised Companies House Documents.
Notarised Companies House documents hold great significance internationally for several reasons:

1. Legal Verification:
   Notarisation offers legal confirmation of the details within these documents, guaranteeing their authenticity and precision.
2. Regulatory Compliance:
   Numerous regulatory bodies, financial institutions, and government entities mandate notarised Companies House documents for a variety of purposes.
3. Business Transactions:
   Notarised documents are frequently crucial for business dealings, mergers, acquisitions, or modifications in company structure.
4. International Use:
   Often, notarised Companies House documents are necessary for international business transactions or investments involving UK companies.

The Procedure for Notarising and Legalising Companies House Documents.
We are able to download the majority of Companies House documents directly from the Companies House website and notarise the downloaded versions. Some examples of these documents include:

• Certificate of incorporation.
• Form IN01.
• Memorandum of Association.
• Articles of Association.
• Financial statements.
• Confirmation statements.
• Certificate of incorporation on change of name.
• Company snapshot.



When it comes to notarising the documents, the notary has the option to create individual notarial certificates for each document or to combine several documents under a single notarial certificate. However, please note that if you need additional legalisation, certain embassies do not accept bundled documents.

One document that cannot be downloaded from Companies House is the Certificate of Good Standing. This must be requested directly from Companies House and will feature an original wet ink signature from the official at Companies House. We can still notarise the Certificate of Good Standing once it has been received.

Depending on the location where you intend to use the Companies House documents, you may also need an apostille and/or consular legalisation. We can manage both of these additional processes for you if necessary.

You can also request certified copies of any document filed at Companies House directly from Companies House. Since these will include wet ink signatures from the certifying official, they can be apostilled directly. An original wet ink signed Certificate of Good Standing can also be apostilled directly. However, be aware that some international authorities may also require the notarisation step, even if the FCDO does not.

If you possess several documents pertaining to a single company, we can consolidate them into a bound set to help you save costs. The documents will be legally bound with a solicitor’s cover sheet, and a single apostille will be provided to legalize all the documents included within.

Numerous clients opt for our apostille services because Coddan CPM offers a comprehensive legalisation solution. We perform document checks and provide solicitor certification for your paperwork. Typically, most documents are legalised with an apostille within about 1-2 working days, depending on our document verification process.

Choose your services, place your order online, and send your documents to us. Upon ordering online, we will generate a unique reference for your document(s). Alternatively, you can email us your company documents and academic certificates today, and a member of our team will guide you on the next steps. The procedure for legalising a document with an apostille certificate differs from one document to another.

The primary reason many clients select our service is our expertise and our registration to submit documents to the FCDO Legalisation Office (formerly known as FCO). We guarantee that documents are prepared with the necessary seals and signatures to facilitate the prompt issuance of the apostille certificate.

Key Insights

Important Points.

The certificate of incorporation is the legal document that officially forms your corporation and confirms its existence to banks, investors, and government entities.
It is essential for the document to include certain information, including your company name, its purpose, registered agent information, and authorized shares as stipulated by state law.
Businesses can fill out and file their certificate of incorporation through the Secretary of State’s office or the relevant state agency.
A copy will be necessary for opening business bank accounts, applying for loans, and performing various business operations.

— Same-day company registration & notarisation service in Scotland —
You can get same-day incorporation by using a fast-track service with a company formation agent that offers a "same-day" or "fast-track" option, typically requires you to submit your application before a specific time (e.g., 11:00 AM), and includes a registered address in Scotland. The Certificate of Incorporation is delivered digitally, but getting a notarized certificate on the same day is unlikely because notarization requires an original document from Companies House. You can, however, receive notarization services separately once you have obtained the official certificate.
To get a notarized certificate, you must first obtain either the original or a certified copy of the Certificate of Incorporation from Companies House. If you require the document for international use, you may need to get an apostille or consular legalization, which can be arranged through your notary.

What information does the certificate of incorporation include?
A certificate of incorporation is an essential and fundamental document for any company and serves as its official birth certificate. In accordance with Section 15 of the Companies Act 2006, which is the principal legislation governing the formation and operation of companies in the United Kingdom, the certificate must include several key details:

1. Company Name and Registered Number:
   The full legal name of the company along with its unique registered number, which is assigned by Companies House and used for identification purposes in all official dealings.
2. Date of Incorporation:
   The exact date on which the company was incorporated, marking the beginning of its legal existence as a registered entity.
3. Company Type:
   An indication of whether the company is limited or unlimited. If it is a limited company, it further specifies whether it is limited by shares, which involves shareholders and share capital, or limited by guarantee, which is often used by non-profit organizations where members’ liabilities are limited to a predetermined amount.
4. Company Status:
   Clarification on whether the company is classified as private or public. A private company restricts ownership and shares are not available to the general public, while a public company can offer shares to the public and is often listed on a stock exchange.
5. Registered Office Location:
   Information regarding the physical location of the company’s registered office, which indicates whether it is situated in England and Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland. This address is essential for legal documentation and communication.



Once the certificate is issued, the Companies Act 2006 asserts that "the certificate is conclusive evidence that the requirements of this Act regarding registration have been complied with and that the company is duly registered under this Act." In simpler terms, this means that the company has fulfilled all necessary legal obligations for registration as outlined in the Companies Act 2006, granting it the legitimacy and legal standing to operate within the UK.

The process of getting your first certificate of incorporation can vary based on the method you choose to apply for your company formation. Here’s a detailed explanation of both online and postal application procedures:

Online Applications:
If you decide to apply online—either through a reputable company formation agent like Quality Company Formations or directly via Companies House—you can expect to receive a digital certificate of incorporation through email within approximately 24 hours. This swift processing time is contingent upon the accuracy of your application. Should there be any discrepancies or errors, Companies House will reach out to you for clarification or additional information before they can approve your application and issue the certificate.

To minimize the risk of delays, if you choose to register your company with us, our team of experienced company experts will meticulously review all submitted information prior to submission. This thorough vetting process is designed to ensure your application is complete and compliant, allowing for a smoother and more efficient approval experience.

Postal Applications:
For those opting to register by post, it is important to note that this route typically requires more time. Postal applications are usually processed within a timeframe of 8 to 10 days. After processing, you can expect to receive a hard copy of your certificate by mail shortly thereafter. It is wise to allow for some flexibility in this timeline; therefore, allocating up to two weeks for the delivery of your certificate is advisable to account for any potential postal delays.

If you choose to register with Coddan CPM and select one of our comprehensive packages, you will benefit from receiving both a hard copy and a digital version of your certificate of incorporation. This dual delivery ensures that you have immediate access to your documentation while also maintaining a physical record for your files.

When You Might Need Your Certificate of Incorporation.
A certificate of incorporation serves a critical role beyond merely confirming your company’s existence; it is an important legal document that provides proof of your business’s establishment and compliance with relevant laws. While you may not need to reference it frequently, there are several key situations where having this certificate readily available is essential for your business operations.

One of the most common scenarios in which you’ll require your certificate of incorporation is when opening a business bank account. Financial institutions typically ask for this document to verify your company’s legal status, ensuring that it is properly registered and compliant with all regulatory requirements. This verification process helps protect both the bank and your business from potential legal issues.

If you seek funding, whether through loans, grants, or investments, lenders and financial institutions will also request a copy of your certificate of incorporation. They need this document to assess your company’s legitimacy and compliance with the law, which in turn affects the terms and conditions of the financial support they may offer.

Additionally, a certificate of incorporation may be necessary under the following circumstances:

1. Entering into contracts with other businesses:
   Legal agreements often require proof of your company’s existence to enforce the terms and conditions outlined within.
2. Obtaining business licenses:
   Many jurisdictions require proof of incorporation to issue the necessary licenses and permits to operate legally.
3. Buying or renting property:
   Whether purchasing commercial real estate or leasing a space for your operations, landlords and sellers often require their tenants or buyers to present their certificate as part of the due diligence process.
4. Conducting business internationally:
   Engaging with foreign markets may necessitate your certificate of incorporation to satisfy legal requirements in other countries.
5. Issuing new shares of the company:
   If you plan to raise capital by selling shares, potential investors will want to see documentation that validates your company’s founding and structure.
6. Registering your company for Corporation Tax:
   Tax authorities often require proof of incorporation as part of the registration process for corporate taxation.
7. Preparing annual accounts:
   Auditors and accountants may request your certificate during the financial reporting process to validate your business's legal status.
8. Selling the company:
   If you decide to transfer ownership of your business, prospective buyers will want to review your certificate of incorporation to confirm the legitimacy of your company.



Having your certificate of incorporation on hand will streamline these various processes and help ensure compliance with legal and regulatory obligations. It is a foundational document that underscores the legitimacy of your business and can facilitate smoother interactions in various professional contexts.

Replacing a Lost Certificate of Incorporation.
Ensuring the safekeeping and proper management of company documents is crucial for maintaining efficient operations. While digital tools can minimize the risk of loss, physical records can be easily misplaced. If you find yourself needing to replace a lost paper certificate of incorporation, there are several straightforward options available to you:

Download a PDF from the Public Register.
Companies House offers a public File Copy of your company’s certificate of incorporation, which contains the same information as the original document. This information is accessible through the Companies House online register. To obtain a PDF copy, visit the Companies House website and search for your company name in the register. After finding your company in the search results, click on its name to access the details page. Navigate to the Filing History tab, and apply the Incorporation filter. You will then see the option View PDF next to the relevant document at the bottom of the list. This method is cost-effective and allows immediate access to your certificate.

Request a Certified Copy from Companies House.
For those who prefer a physical copy of the certificate, you can request one directly from Companies House. After locating your company in the register, click on the More tab and choose the Order Certificate option.

Use the Coddan Customer Portal.
If your company was established through Coddan, retrieving a digital copy of your certificate of incorporation is quick and straightforward. Simply log into your Coddan account. On the dashboard, select My Companies and click View next to your specific company name. Next, navigate to the Documents tab where you can download a PDF version of your certificate. If you would rather have a paper copy, you can easily purchase one through our online shop for only £5.95. Simply go to My Companies, click View next to your company name, and access the Shop tab to select the Printed Certificate of Incorporation option.

In summary, if you lose your certificate of incorporation, multiple avenues are available for retrieving it, ensuring that you can maintain compliance and safeguard your business interests with minimal delay.

As the official Registrar in the United Kingdom, Companies House plays a vital role in the incorporation of companies by thoroughly reviewing and approving all valid applications for company formation. Once an application is approved, Companies House issues a certificate of incorporation, an essential document that signifies the legal establishment of the company. This certificate confirms that the company is recognized as a separate legal entity, distinct from its directors and shareholders, thereby granting it its own unique identity within the legal framework.

According to the Companies Act 2006, the certificate of incorporation serves as conclusive evidence that the requirements of this Act as to registration have been complied with and that the company is duly registered under this Act. This document is analogous to a birth certificate for the company, marking the official commencement of its existence.

All entities registered at Companies House are eligible to receive a certificate of incorporation. This broad category includes not only standard private and public limited companies but also limited liability partnerships (LLPs), community interest companies (CICs), and various other forms of organizations recognized on the public register. However, it’s important to note that unincorporated entities, such as sole traders and general partnerships, do not require a certificate of incorporation, as they do not possess a separate legal identity.

Upon approval of a company formation application, Companies House efficiently issues the certificate of incorporation, typically without delay, allowing the new company to begin its operations promptly. This certificate not only serves a legal function but also provides stakeholders, potential investors, and partners with assurance regarding the company’s legitimacy and compliance with relevant regulatory requirements.

You will receive your incorporation certificate in different formats depending on the method you choose to form your company, whether electronically online or by using a paper form (IN01). Here’s a more detailed explanation of both processes:

Online Company Formation:
If you opt to form your company through a service like Coddan CPM, you will typically receive your incorporation certificate as a PDF attachment in an email. This email will be sent to you promptly after Companies House has thoroughly reviewed and approved your application. The digital format allows for easy saving and sharing, and you have the option to print a physical copy of the certificate for your records.

Paper Registration with Companies House:
If you decide to register your company by mailing in the paper form, Companies House will send you a traditional paper certificate of incorporation. After your application has been successfully processed, the physical certificate is usually mailed to you. Please note that this may take several business days, depending on postal service times, so it’s advisable to factor in this wait when planning your company operations.

By understanding the differences in how you will receive your incorporation certificate, you can choose the method that best suits your needs and ensures that you have the required documentation for your new company as efficiently as possible.