Expanding into the UK is a milestone. Those first 30 days set the rhythm—the operational and governance habits that make everything else smoother and more scalable.

1) Form & sequence — build in the right order

• Incorporate with Companies House (directors, registered office, PSC register).
• Obtain your Corporation Tax UTR from HMRC.
• Register PAYE; assess and, if required, register for VAT (and set up MTD from day one).
• Run these steps in sequence so payroll and invoicing don’t trip over each other.

2) Banking & KYC — prepare the pack

• UBO IDs, org chart, board resolutions, funding memo, proof of address.
• Start onboarding early—accounts live before the first payroll run keeps payments and reporting clean.

3) People & payroll — get the basics right

• Right-to-work checks, compliant employment contracts, and PAYE set-up.
• Plan for auto-enrolment pensions and a clear expense policy from month one.

4) Controls & cadence — governance that supports growth

• Delegated authorities and approved signatories.
•  Monthly management accounts in a single base currency.
•  A board calendar with fixed meeting dates, approvals, and minute-taking discipline.

5) Invoicing & tax hygiene — avoid rework later

• Issue invoices with correct VAT treatment; keep digital links for MTD.
• Close the first month on time; reconcile cash; document intercompany funding terms.

At Porte, we help international teams set this foundation so leadership can focus on the market, not the admin.

Thinking about your UK launch?
If you’d like a crisp 30-day plan tailored to your structure, we’re here.