The Ultimate 2026 Documentation Checklist for UK Company Formation

Registering a company shouldn't feel like a mountain of paperwork. For Irish founders, the process is streamlined, but documentation must be precise to pass the new 2026 verification standards.

Here is exactly what you need to have ready before you hit "Submit".

1. Proof of Identity (Government-Issued)

You will need a valid, in-date photo ID. For most Irish citizens, this is:

• Passport (Recommended for fastest verification).
• Driver’s License (Valid Irish license).
• National ID Card.

2. Proof of Residential Address

Companies House and ACSPs require proof of where you actually live in Ireland. This must be less than 3 months old:

• Bank Statement (International or local).
• Utility Bill (Electric, gas, water—not mobile phone).
• Council Tax / Local Property Tax bill.

3. Articles of Association

This is the "Constitution" of your company. Most startups use the "Model Articles" provided by Companies House, which are standard and investor-friendly.

• Note: If you have complex share classes or multiple founders, you may need bespoke Articles.

4. Memorandum of Association

This is a short legal statement signed by all shareholders (subscribers) agreeing to form the company and take at least one share each.

5. SIC Code (Standard Industrial Classification)

You must select at least one code that describes what your business does. For example:

• 62012: Business and domestic software development.
• 70229: Management consultancy activities.

6. Official UK Addresses

You need two specific addresses (which we can provide):

• Registered Office Address: The official legal address.
• Director’s Service Address: To keep your private Irish address off the public register.

[!IMPORTANT] Since the 2026 ECCTA update, all documents must be clear and high-resolution. Blurry photos of IDs are the #1 cause of formation delays.

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