⚡ Quick Answer: Most people can be a company director in the UK. You must be at least 16, and there’s no UK residency requirement. However, undischarged bankrupts and disqualified directors are restricted.

Who Can Be a Director

• You must be at least 16 years old
• Both UK residents and international residents can be directors
• There’s no requirement for a director to live in the UK
• A company must have at least one director who is a natural person (not just a corporate entity)

Restrictions

You cannot be a director if you are:

• An undischarged bankrupt (unless you have court permission)
• Disqualified by a court under the Company Directors Disqualification Act 1986
• Subject to specific legal restrictions in your home country that prevent directorship

Director’s Responsibilities

• Act in the best interests of the company
• Exercise reasonable care, skill, and diligence
• Avoid conflicts of interest
• File annual accounts and confirmation statements with Companies House
• Ensure the company maintains a registered office address in England, Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland

Common Questions

Can a non-UK resident be a director?

Yes. There is no residency requirement for UK company directors.

Do I need a UK address to be a director?

Your company needs a UK registered office address (which our virtual office provides). Directors can use the Director’s Service Address add-on to keep their home address private on Companies House.

Can a company be a director?

A company can be a director, but every company must have at least one director who is a natural person.

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Updated on: 28/03/2026