Last updated Sep 01, 2026 and written by Daniel Tuckey

Can I Use "International" in My Company Name?

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Only if you can show real overseas trading behind it. "International" is one of over 100 words Companies House treats as sensitive, and it comes with its own specific test depending on where the word sits in your name.

Key Takeaways

  • Using "International" at the start of a name needs proof that most of the company's activity is trading overseas.
  • Using it at the end needs proof the company operates in two or more overseas countries.
  • If you can't meet the test at registration, you can commit to meeting it within 3 months instead, backed by a supporting document.
  • "International" is just one of over 100 sensitive words. Others include Group, Holding, Royal, and Chartered, each with its own approval criteria.

What's the Actual Rule for Using "International"?

It depends on where the word sits in your company name. Put it at the start, and Companies House expects evidence that the major part of your company's activities involves trading overseas. Put it at the end instead, and the bar is different: you need to show the company operates in two or more overseas countries.

Neither test is about intention alone. Companies House wants something concrete showing the claim genuinely reflects how the business operates, or will operate.

What if I Can't Meet the Test Yet?

You can commit to meeting it within 3 months of registration instead, provided you can back that up with a short supporting statement at the time you apply. This typically means naming the countries you'll be trading in and roughly what proportion of your trade each will represent, signed by a director.

If you're forming your company with us, our system flags this automatically when a restricted word is detected in your proposed name, prompting you to complete the relevant statement before you submit your application.

What Happens if I Can't Meet the Criteria at All?

You'll need to choose a different name. If your business genuinely doesn't trade overseas, or doesn't plan to within a reasonable window, "International" isn't going to be an available option, regardless of how well it fits your branding.

Is "International" the Only Restricted Word I Should Know About?

No, it's just one of the more common ones. Over 100 words and expressions are treated as sensitive under current Companies House rules, including Group, Holding, Royal, Chartered, Trust, and Foundation, each with its own approval criteria rather than a single blanket test. The current list of sensitive words is published on GOV.UK, worth checking against before you settle on a name that might trigger one of these.

FAQs

Can I use "International" anywhere in my company name?

Only if you can demonstrate the relevant test: major overseas trading if it's at the start of the name, or operations in two or more overseas countries if it's at the end.

What if my business isn't trading overseas yet?

You can commit to meeting the criteria within 3 months of registration, backed by a short supporting statement.

Are there other restricted words besides "International"?

Yes, over 100 in total, including Group, Holding, Royal, and Chartered, each with different approval requirements.

What happens if Companies House rejects my chosen name?

You'll need to pick an alternative name that doesn't include the restricted word, or one you can genuinely meet the criteria for.

This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Companies House naming rules can change, so it's worth checking current guidance on GOV.UK before finalising your company name.