How Do Companies Prove They Are Based In The Uk?

[Backdrifter]

My employer (a small college) has changed legal status after being acquired by another organisation and now run by a newly set-up subsidiary of this organisation, which means we have to apply for a new Tier 4 Sponsor licence. Among the document requirements are "Proof of being based in the UK", "Proof of operating and trading lawfully in the UK" but no guidance on what documents can be used as evidence of these. What sort of documents could we use?

[pixie374]

Proof of business address, bank accounts, invoices, HMRC forms?

[237SJ]

VAT no?

[Backdrifter]

Thanks for those replies, much appreciated.

[Backdrifter]

Follow-up question: the new company s being asked for audited accounts, but as it's new, there aren't any. Should we just state this, or is there something that could be provided e.g. notification of a firm of accounts hired for the purpose?

[Kidas]

The official proof would be the registration documents from Companies House.

https://beta.companieshouse.gov.uk/

Others, such as a VAT registration number would be helpful.
You can confirm the companies associated with specific VAT numbers at this location:

http://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/vies/

As to not yet having accounts, then yes, you can refer to the date of registration with wiher Companies House or the HMRC.

It would do not harm – and may help your case – to give the contact details of your accountants, or legal representative. Your client could refer to them, to check on your company status, as they are seen as professionals and tend not to distort the truth (though that is sometimes questionable).

Getting on the supplier list of any organisation can present some headaches, but is usually worth it. Good luck

[Backdrifter]

Many thanks Kidas, that's very helpful.