Prikhodko&Partners
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International corporate law
Business registration and support in Great Britain Transferring business assets to the UK

Taras Miroshnychenko

Head of International Corporate Law and Fintech Practice

E-mail

miroshnychenko@prikhodko.com.ua

Phone numbers

Expert in fintech, crypto, and international corporate law with over 20 years of experience. Specializes in crypto licensing (VASP/CASP), iGaming business support, and international structuring, asset protection, and OSINT analytics for risk assessment and due diligence.

Transferring business assets to the UK

As specialists in the field of business and asset support in most parts of the world, we can note that transferring business assets to the UK is becoming a profitable and strategically important step for many entrepreneurs.

At the same time, it should be noted that in the context of globalization and constant changes in world markets, more and more Ukrainian entrepreneurs are considering the possibility of transferring their business assets abroad.

One of the most attractive destinations today is the UK — a country with a strong economy, a stable legal system and a favorable investment climate.

The specialists of the Law Firm “Prikhodko and Partners”, having many years of experience in various aspects of supporting individuals, their entrepreneurial activities, as well as supporting the process of international asset transfer, are ready to become your reliable partner on the way to entering the British market, including offering not only qualified assistance, but also guaranteeing speed, reliability and full compliance with the country’s legislation.

Thus, let us analyze in more detail why the United Kingdom in specific theses aspects

Stability of the legal system

The UK is known for its transparent and predictable legal system. Protection of property rights, clear business regulation, and an efficient judicial system create a favorable environment for doing business.

Tax benefits

While the UK tax system is strict, it also offers a variety of benefits for investors and entrepreneurs. In particular, there are special regimes for international companies, the possibility of avoiding double taxation and flexible profit planning tools.

Access to the global market

A business registered in the UK enjoys a high level of trust from partners and investors from all over the world. This makes it much easier to attract investment, conclude contracts and establish international cooperation.

Asset protection tools

British law allows for effective structuring of asset ownership, which is particularly relevant in the context of economic and political instability in other countries.

Through the creation of holding companies, trusts or SPV structures (Special Purpose Vehicle), it is possible to ensure capital protection and optimize management.

At this stage, we focus on a detailed description of the main advantages of transferring business assets to the UK for Ukrainian entrepreneurs:

Access to a stable and predictable legal system

Transparency and protection of property rights
Reliability of concluded contracts
Effective resolution of commercial disputes

Favorable tax environment

Corporation Tax – one of the lowest in the G7 countries (as of 2024 – 25%, but there are preferential regimes)
Benefits for innovative businesses – for example, R&D Tax Relief for technology and science companies

Access to the global market

Existence of trade agreements with many countries after Brexit, including the EU, USA, Canada, Australia, etc.
The ability to enter foreign markets with minimal barriers

Financial infrastructure

A strong banking system and access to venture capital
Many investment funds and accelerators interested in new projects

Reputational advantage

Registering a business in the UK increases trust from international partners, suppliers and investors

Protection against geopolitical risks

Transferring assets outside Ukraine helps reduce risks associated with war, instability, or changes in domestic legislation
The ability to preserve assets, ensure their security, and avoid potential loss due to military action

Opportunities for relocation of staff and owners

The United Kingdom offers visa programs for entrepreneurs, investors and highly skilled professionals (e.g. Innovator Founder visa)

It will also be useful: Transferring business assets to another country

Let’s stop and analyze in more detail what business assets can be transferred?

The asset transfer process covers a wide range of property and rights, including:

shares in Ukrainian or foreign companies;
intellectual property (trademarks, patents, copyrights);
corporate rights;
real estate or income from its operation;
contractual relationships (licenses, franchises, etc.);
banking assets, investments, cryptocurrency.

Conclusion

Thus, we see in practice that transferring business assets to the UK is an important strategic step for Ukrainian entrepreneurs, which opens up new opportunities for development and growth.

In particular, as we noted earlier, the UK has a stable economy, a favorable tax environment, a developed legal system and wide access to international markets.

All this creates conditions for attracting foreign investment, reducing risks associated with instability in Ukraine, and increasing trust from partners and customers.

And in the context of globalization and modern challenges, business diversification and access to Western markets can be the key to the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of Ukrainian companies.

How can we help you move business assets to the UK?

Our Law Firm “Prikhodko and Partners” is ready to provide you with full support for this process – from analysis and planning to the complete transfer of business assets to the UK.

We will help you avoid possible complications and guarantee the safety, legality and efficiency of each stage.

Calculate the cost of services

1 question

Are you in Great Britain?

Yes

2 question

Are you a resident of the UK?

Yes

3 question

Are you planning a physical presence of the company in the UK (office, employees)?

Yes

4 question

Have you previously considered other jurisdictions for doing business?

Yes

How long does company registration take?

A standard electronic application to Companies House is usually processed within 24 hours. However, preparation of the structure, identity verification, obtaining an address, tax setup and account opening require additional time.

Who needs to complete identity verification?

Directors and persons with significant control — PSCs — must complete verification. Once completed, the individual receives a Companies House personal code used to confirm the relevant corporate role. Non-residents may also complete verification, including by using a biometric passport.

Where is the best place to open an account for a UK company with a non-resident director?

Since traditional UK High-Street Banks require a physical business presence, the fastest and most efficient solution for international companies is to open accounts with electronic money institutions (EMIs). Platforms such as Wise Business, Revolut Business and Payoneer are licensed by the FCA and provide full UK and international account details for transactions.

When must a company register for VAT?

The general threshold is £90,000 of taxable turnover over the previous consecutive 12 months or expected turnover during the next 30 days. Separate rules may apply to non-resident and cross-border models, so VAT should be analysed before sales begin.

Is a company required to file reports if it has not traded?

Yes, it is mandatory. Even companies with no operating activity must annually file so-called “Dormant Accounts” with Companies House and confirm the ownership structure through a Confirmation Statement. Failure to file these documents results in substantial penalties (from £150 to £1,500) and compulsory dissolution of the company, with its assets passing to the Crown.

Successful cases on the topic: