Legal Support for Opening a Branch or Representative Office in the United Kingdom
This service is relevant for companies seeking to expand their presence in the UK — particularly foreign businesses, including Ukrainian firms. Businesses engage legal support to ensure lawful establishment of a branch or representative office, compliance with corporate and tax regulations, and minimisation of legal risks.

Legal assistance helps navigate the entire process confidently — from choosing the structure to managing official requirements.
Structuring a Branch or Subsidiary: Legal Options and Optimal Model Selection
Before starting the procedure, it is essential to determine whether to choose an official branch or a separate subsidiary. This affects tax exposure, obligations, and corporate liability.
Solicitor’s actions:
- Analysing the client’s business model and objectives for UK expansion
- Advising on legal and tax implications of branch vs subsidiary
- Recommending a corporate structure considering immigration and tax factors
- Preparing legal opinions and an action plan

Outcome: the client receives a legally sound operational model in the UK, clarity on obligations, and an optimal business structure.
Registration of an Official Branch or Subsidiary in the UK
Proper registration includes incorporation, tax codes, and interaction with authorities such as Companies House and HMRC.
Solicitor’s actions:
- Preparing documents for registering a branch or subsidiary
- Coordinating with founders and directors to complete incorporation forms (IN01 and statutory details)
- Registering with HMRC (obtaining UTR, VAT registration) and creating a corporate tax profile
- Arranging a UK address and identifying compliance officers

Outcome: the client obtains official registration with Companies House, tax status with HMRC, and the right to operate under UK law.
Ongoing Legal Support: Regulatory Compliance and Corporate Governance
After registration, it is important to comply with financial reporting, tax accounting, and corporate governance standards.
Solicitor’s actions:
- Advising on branch or subsidiary obligations (annual returns, financial statements, tax filings)
- Developing internal AML/KYC policies and governance structure
- Providing legal support in contracts, employment, and regulatory interactions
- Consulting on VAT, payroll, reporting, and employment law

Outcome: the client receives comprehensive business support, legal assurance, and reduced risk of audits or penalties.
ConclusionLegal support for opening a branch or subsidiary in the UK ensures proper business registration, minimises risks, and supports lawful operations. The Consultant legal marketplace team guides clients through every stage — from structural selection to integrated compliance management — ensuring a smooth launch and stable business activity.