BLOG
Why Use a Virtual Office for Company Formation?


When forming a company in the UK, one of the first decisions you'll make is choosing your registered business address. For many founders, especially those working remotely or starting lean, using a virtual office is the smartest move.
In this article, we explain why a virtual office is a strategic advantage for company formation, what legal requirements it satisfies, and why our location at 86-90 Paul Street, London EC2A, is trusted by hundreds of new UK businesses.
1. Legal Requirements for Company Formation in the UK
To register a limited company in the UK, you need:
A registered office address in the country of incorporation (e.g., England & Wales)
A director’s service address (can be different from registered office)
The ability to receive statutory mail from Companies House and HMRC
A virtual office satisfies all of these, as long as the provider is compliant and supports business registration.
2. Why a Virtual Office Makes Sense
✅ Privacy Protection
You don’t have to use your home address, which would otherwise be made public on Companies House.
✅ Professional Image
Registering your company with a London business address gives immediate credibility—ideal for e-commerce, consulting, tech, and financial businesses.
✅ Compliance & Convenience
Mail is received, scanned or forwarded, and handled securely so you never miss a notice.
3. Why Location Still Matters
Many providers offer generic UK addresses—but location still impacts perception.
At Virtual Office Base, our address at 86-90 Paul Street, London EC2A offers:
Central London prestige in Shoreditch, a startup and tech hub
Trust and recognition with partners, clients, and banks
A suitable registered and director’s address for Companies House
4. Who Should Use a Virtual Office for Company Formation?
Solo founders launching limited companies from home
Remote-first teams with no physical HQ
International entrepreneurs registering a UK business
Agencies and consultants looking to appear more established
5. How to Form a Company Using Virtual Office Base
Choose your plan (Pro or Business for full registration support)
Upload your ID and address verification documents
Activate your account and receive confirmation of your address
Use the address on your company registration with Companies House
Bonus: We can also refer you to trusted incorporation partners or assist with setup if needed.
Conclusion
Using a virtual office for company formation is a cost-effective, compliant, and professional way to register your business in the UK. With Virtual Office Base, you'll have a trusted London address at 86-90 Paul Street, EC2A, built to support new founders and remote-first teams.
Register your company the right way: get started here or compare our plans.

Hugo Cannon
CEO
@Virtual Office Base
3x Startup founder. Ex-VC. Investor in Shopify, Monzo & more.