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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.






