Sensitive words in UK business names: the list that needs approval
Last reviewed 10 July 2026
Companies House restricts certain words and expressions in company names. Some imply a connection to government or a public authority; some suggest a regulated activity; some imply a scale or status you have to earn. Use one without the right approval and your registration is refused.
Words that need permission
The list is long, but the common trip-ups include:
- Status/scale: “Group”, “Holding”, “International”, “Association”, “Federation” — you may need to show the structure justifies it.
- Authority/prestige: “British”, “National”, “Royal”, “Great Britain”, “United Kingdom” — these imply official standing and need supporting evidence.
- Regulated activity: “Bank”, “Insurance”, “Charity”, “Architect”, “Dentist” — often need sign-off from the relevant regulator (e.g. the FCA, Charity Commission).
- Institution words: “Institute”, “University”, “Council”, “Trust”.
How approval works
For some words you supply a statement to Companies House; for others you need written non-objection from a named body before you apply, and you include that with the incorporation. The legal ending of the company doesn’t exempt you — the restriction is on the word, not the whole name.
Check before you fall in love with a name
NameVetted flags sensitive words in your candidate name, tells you which approval body governs each one, and links you to the guidance — so you know upfront whether a name means paperwork or a dead end. Run a free check to screen for them.
General information, not legal advice.
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Frequently asked questions
Why was my company name rejected for a sensitive word?
Certain words imply official standing, scale, or a regulated activity and need approval or supporting evidence before Companies House will register a name containing them.
Can I use “Group” or “International” in my company name?
Usually only if your company’s structure or activities justify it. These are sensitive words, so Companies House may ask for evidence before approving the name.
Related guides
How to check if a business name is available in the UK
Availability isn’t one check — it’s four. Here’s the order to run them in, and why a free Companies House result doesn’t mean the name is yours.
Can two UK companies have the same or similar name?
Two companies can’t share the “same as” name — but the rules on what counts as the same, and on merely similar names, surprise most founders.