If you’ve ever tried opening a UK business bank account without a Certificate of Incorporation, you’ll quickly discover it’s one of the most important documents your company can have. Without it, banks, payment providers, investors, and government authorities may refuse to work with your business.
A Certificate of Incorporation is the official document issued by Companies House when a company is successfully registered. It serves as legal proof that your business exists and can operate as a separate legal entity.
With more than 850,000 companies incorporated in the UK each year, obtaining this document is a crucial first step for entrepreneurs, startups, and overseas business owners looking to establish a presence in the UK.
Whether you’re launching a new company, opening a business bank account, or expanding internationally, understanding how to get a Certificate of Incorporation from Companies House can save time and prevent unnecessary delays.
In this guide, we’ll explain what the certificate is, how to obtain it, how to order certified copies, and when you may need additional legalisation services.
What Is a Certificate of Incorporation?
A Certificate of Incorporation is the official document issued by Companies House that confirms your company has been legally registered in the UK.
Think of it as your company’s birth certificate. Once issued, your business becomes a separate legal entity, allowing it to trade, enter contracts, own assets, and open bank accounts.
The certificate contains several important details:
- Company name
- Company registration number
- Date of incorporation
- Company type (such as a Private Limited Company)
- Jurisdiction (England & Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland)
- Official Companies House seal and registrar authentication
Most companies now receive a digital PDF certificate, which is accepted for the majority of business activities. However, some banks, regulators, and overseas authorities may require certified paper copies.
If you’re planning to open a business account or establish an international presence, you may also need support with our UK Company Incorporation Services and Business Banking Solutions.
Why Is a Certificate of Incorporation Important?
Your Certificate of Incorporation is often requested when:
- Opening a UK business bank account
- Applying for payment processing services
- Entering commercial contracts
- Applying for funding or investment
- Registering for government tenders
- Expanding your company internationally
- Verifying your business with suppliers and partners
Without this document, it can be difficult to prove that your company legally exists.
How to Get a Certificate of Incorporation
There are two common situations where you may need a Certificate of Incorporation:
1. Registering a New Company
When you incorporate a company with Companies House, your certificate is issued automatically once the application is approved.
For online applications, Companies House typically processes registrations within 24 hours, and the certificate is delivered digitally by email.
To register your company, you’ll need:
- A unique company name
- Registered office address
- Registered email address
- Director and shareholder details
- Persons with Significant Control (PSC) information
- SIC code describing your business activity
- Articles of Association
- Registration fee payment
Current Companies House fees:
- Online incorporation: £50
- Postal incorporation (Form IN01): £71
Postal applications generally take between 8 and 10 working days to process.
For businesses seeking a faster and fully managed setup, our UK Company Formation Services can handle the entire registration process on your behalf.
2. Replacing a Lost Certificate
If you’ve misplaced your Certificate of Incorporation, don’t worry.
You can download a copy directly from Companies House:
- Search for your company on the Companies House register.
- Open the Filing History section.
- Locate the incorporation filing.
- Download the PDF version.
This service is free and available instantly.
If you require an official paper version, you can order a certified copy directly from Companies House or through a professional formation agent.
Ordering Certified Copies of Your Certificate
While a digital certificate is sufficient for most UK business activities, some organisations require a certified paper copy.
A certified certificate is issued directly by Companies House and confirms the company’s details as recorded on the official register.
Situations Where a Certified Copy May Be Required
- Opening overseas bank accounts
- Registering a foreign branch
- Applying for regulated licences
- International business verification
- Government contract applications
- Corporate due diligence processes
Costs and Processing Times
Companies House currently offers:
- Standard service: £15 per document (approximately 4 working days)
- Same-day service: £50 per document (order before 11:00 AM)
Certified certificates are posted as physical documents and may take longer to arrive if being delivered internationally.
Legalisation and Apostille Services
If you intend to use your Certificate of Incorporation outside the UK, some countries may require the document to be legalised.
Countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention often request an Apostille Certificate issued by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
This additional verification confirms that the Companies House seal and signature are genuine, making the document legally recognised abroad.
Businesses expanding internationally frequently combine incorporation documents with our Company Formation and International Compliance Services to ensure all documentation meets local requirements.
How EMS Can Help
At EMS, we simplify the entire incorporation process for UK and international entrepreneurs.
Our specialists can assist with:
- UK company registration
- Companies House filings
- Certified copies of incorporation documents
- Statements of Good Standing
- Apostille and legalisation services
- Business banking introductions
- Ongoing compliance support
Whether you’re starting your first business or expanding globally, our team ensures your company is structured correctly from day one.
Learn more about our Company Incorporation Services, Business Banking Solutions, and International Business Support Services.
Conclusion
A Certificate of Incorporation is one of the most important documents your company will ever receive. It serves as official proof that your business legally exists and is often required when opening bank accounts, signing contracts, securing investment, or expanding internationally.
Whether you’re registering a new company or replacing a lost certificate, understanding the process can help you avoid delays and keep your business moving forward.
Working with experienced professionals like EMS can make incorporation, compliance, and document management straightforward, allowing you to focus on growing your business with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I receive a digital or paper Certificate of Incorporation?
Most companies receive a digital PDF certificate from Companies House. This version is legally valid for most purposes. Certified paper copies can be ordered separately if required.
How long does it take to get a Certificate of Incorporation?
Online applications are typically processed within 24 hours. Postal applications usually take between 8 and 10 working days.
Can I download a lost Certificate of Incorporation?
Yes. Companies House allows you to download a copy from your company’s filing history free of charge.
What is a certified Certificate of Incorporation?
A certified certificate is an official paper copy issued by Companies House. It may include additional verified company information and is often required for overseas transactions.
How much does a certified copy cost?
The standard service costs £15 per document and usually takes around four working days. Same-day processing is available for £50 when ordered before 11:00 AM.
Do I need an Apostille on my Certificate of Incorporation?
If you’re using the document internationally, some countries may require Apostille legalisation through the FCDO before accepting it.
