Employment agencies and employment businesses

There is no legal requirement to form a limited company in order to trade as an employment agency or employment business.

There are several different options to choose from when starting a business, such as sole trader, partnership, and limited liability company. Your choice will depend on your personal circumstances.

Running the business from home

There is no reason why your business should not be run from your home providing that you comply with the relevant rules and regulations. In some instances working from home can affect your mortgage, your home insurance, and rates, among other things. There are also health and safety issues to be aware of.

Read more on how to use your home as a workplace.

Operating in another country

Not all UK agencies can operate in other countries - it depends on the law of the country concerned. Check with the appropriate country's embassy. Search for a foreign embassy in the UK.

Help when setting up an agency or business

The Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) is the main trade body for the recruitment industry. Members of REC can access its business start-up services when setting up. This gives access to resources such as training and mentor support.

Find out about the start-up service on how to join the REC.