For non-residents looking to use PayPal UK for business transactions, having the right setup is essential. Whether you already own a UK company or need to form one first, Business Globalizer helps streamline the process from start to finish. Below is a detailed breakdown of the steps involved and expected processing times.
Step 1: Placing an Order for a PayPal UK Account
The process starts when the client chooses a package—either a standalone PayPal UK account service or a company formation package that includes PayPal setup. Once payment is made and the required details are provided, we begin the process.
Scenario 1: Getting a PayPal UK Account as a Non-Resident (With an Existing UK Company & Proxy)
If you already have a registered UK company and only need to set up a PayPal UK business account, you will need to provide:
- UK Bank Account Details (For fund withdrawals)
- Debit Card (Linked to the UK Bank Account; optional)
- Company Documents (Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum)
- Business Email Address (For PayPal account setup and verification)
- UK Phone Number (A real number that can receive verification codes)
- Passport (clear picture for identity confirmation)
- IP/PROXY
Scenario 2: Getting a PayPal UK Account with a Company Formation Package
If you don’t have a UK company yet, the process will begin with company formation. The required documents include:
- Personal Identification Document (Clear picture of Passport, NID, or Driving License)
- Proof of Residential Address (Recent bank statement or utility bill)
Other Required Information
- Proposed Company Name
- Business Description
- Company Type/Structure (Ltd, LLP, etc.)
- Email Address for Communication
- Phone Number for Communication
- Company Owner’s Name
- Details of PSC (Person with Significant Control)
- Director Details
- Shareholder Details (if applicable)
- Share Percentage Details (if applicable)
Note: When taking a passport photo, place it on a flat white background, ensure bright and even lighting, and use a high-resolution camera. Make sure there are no fingers, glare, or shadows in the image, and that all details are clear.
Step 2: Document Verification
Once the documents are submitted, Business Globalizer reviews them to check for accuracy and completeness. If any details are incorrect or missing, we immediately notify the client so they can correct them before proceeding.
Step 3: PayPal UK Account Opening or Company Formation Process
For clients who already have a UK company, we move forward with setting up the PayPal UK account immediately.
For those who need a company formed first, the process follows these steps:
- Company Formation: The business is legally registered with Companies House.
- Business Bank Account Opening: A UK business bank account is set up, which is required for PayPal verification.
- Debit Card Linking: The debit card associated with the bank account is linked.
- PayPal UK Account Creation: Once all previous steps are completed, the PayPal account is opened and linked to the business bank account.
Processing Time
Scenario 1: With an Existing UK Company
Typically takes 4-6 business days, depending on how quickly the bank account and debit card can be linked to PayPal.
Scenario 2: With Company Formation Package
This varies based on:
- Company formation (Usually 3-5 business days)
- Bank account setup (Can take an additional 4-10 business days)
- PayPal UK account registration and linking (4-6 business days)
Factors That Can Delay the Process
While we aim to complete the process as efficiently as possible, delays can happen due to factors outside our control, including:
- Bank Account Verification Delays: Some UK banks take longer to approve and activate business accounts.
- Issues With Adding a UK Phone Number: If PayPal does not recognize the phone number or rejects it for verification.
- Problems With Bank Account or Debit Card Linking: PayPal may require additional verification, delaying the process.
- PayPal Internal Review Hold-Ups: Occasionally, PayPal puts an account under review, extending the approval time.
- Delays in Company Formation or Banking Compliance Checks: If extra verification is needed for business legitimacy.
Common Mistakes That Can Delay PayPal UK Account Approval
Most delays are caused by incomplete or incorrect information provided by the client. The most common mistakes include:
- Blurry or Incomplete Passport Picture: If the image is unclear or cropped, it will be rejected.
- Inaccessible Business Email: Ensure the email is active and checked regularly.
- Providing a Bank That PayPal Doesn’t Support: Some UK banks do not work with PayPal.
- Incorrect Phone Number: The phone number must be able to receive SMS and calls from PayPal.
- Mismatched Business and Personal Information: The details in the PayPal application must exactly match the company registration.
Reasons for PayPal UK Application Rejection
PayPal may reject applications due to:
- Unsupported Business Type: Certain industries are considered high-risk and may not be approved.
- Mismatched Business Information: If PayPal detects inconsistencies between company documents and the application.
- Suspicious Account History: If the applicant has had prior issues with PayPal.
- Bank Account or Card Issues: If the linked bank account or card does not meet PayPal’s requirements.
- High-Risk Country of Residence: Some locations are flagged under PayPal’s risk policies. Additionally, some regions fall under PayPal’s unsupported country list, preventing account openings from there.
Want to learn, how can you open a PayPal account from an unsupported country? Browse our blog on: Get a Business PayPal Account from an Unsupported Country.
Important Disclaimer: Business Globalizer’s Role in the Process
Business Globalizer assists clients in setting up a PayPal UK account by ensuring that all required documents are submitted correctly, guiding them through the process, and addressing potential challenges. However, the final decision and processing time are determined solely by PayPal and associated financial institutions.
While we provide full support, we cannot:
- Speed up PayPal’s internal review process.
- Influence PayPal’s final approval decision.
- Guarantee approval if PayPal’s compliance team deems the application ineligible.
If additional verification is requested, the client must comply with PayPal’s instructions to complete the process.
Refund Policy
Once the PayPal UK account setup process has begun, refunds are generally not available due to third-party fees from banks and others.
Refunds may be possible if:
- The client cancels before any document submission or processing begins (case-by-case review).
- Business Globalizer is unable to proceed due to internal issues.
Refunds will not be granted if:
- The application has already been submitted.
- Delays occur due to bank verification, company registration processing, or PayPal’s review process.
- The client provides incorrect or incomplete information, causing delays or rejection.
- PayPal denies the application based on its internal policies.
You can learn more about refunds on our refund policy page. For refund inquiries, kindly reach out to our support team for assistance.
How to Contact Us?
- Existing Clients: Need help? Just log in to your dashboard and get direct support.
- New Clients: Thinking about starting a company or needing our services? Contact our support team through official channels or book a consultation for expert advice.
Final Thoughts
Getting a PayPal UK account as a non-resident involves multiple steps, including company formation (if required), banking setup, and proper PayPal verification. Business Globalizer helps simplify the process, but processing time ultimately depends on external institutions like banks, Companies House, and PayPal’s internal review team.
For those looking for a reliable setup with professional guidance, we ensure that every step is handled with precision, helping you get your PayPal UK account as smoothly as possible.
Need assistance? Contact Business Globalizer today to get started.
