Jurisdiction

United Kingdom

Companies set up in the United Kingdom have the advantage of a low tax rate (21%) whilst still being European and being able to have a VAT number. UK companies can also be used in tandem with an offshore company to reduce the tax rate to less than 5%. This type of structure is commonly known as an "Agency Company",all business is then conducted in the name of the UK company, but on behalf of the offshore company. This structure is a simple set-up where an onshore company acts as nominee or agent for an offshore principal. This avoids the problems often seen for offshore companies trading internationally

Main characteristics:

Company type	Private Limited Company
Governing corporate legislation	UK companies are regulated under the Companies Act 2006. The UK Companies House is the governing authority.
Information published relating to company officers	The names of company officers appear on public record. Nominee officers can be used to avoid the client's name to appear.
Confidentiality
Accounting requirement	Accounts and tax filing must be submitted by year-end.
Taxation	A tax rate of 21% applies for profits below £300k. For profits exceeding £300k a bracket applies
Legislation
Standard Currency	GBP
Time to form	The UK has a fast and efficient registry. Companies can be incorporated electronically within a day.
Stability	Very stable jurisdiction with excellent reputation.
Communication	Good communication means
Time zone	Convenient time zone (GMT).
Secretary required	Yes
Paid up capital requirement	Minimum share capital : £1.
Basis of legal System	Under Common Law
Minimum shareholders / directors	Minimum of 1 Director and 1 Shareholder.
Bearer shares	Bearer Shares are not permitted.