Please note we no longer conduct this survey. These questions are included in the Annual Outward Foreign Direct Investment Survey.

Aim of this survey

Outward Foreign Affiliates Statistics Survey (OFATS) provides policymakers with information on the structure and activity of foreign affiliates. This enables an accurate assessment to be made of the impact of foreign-controlled enterprises on the economies of the UK and European Union as a whole.

What you need to know

To complete the survey, you will need the following information:

  • information about the business's foreign affiliate companies
  • figures relating to the economic activity of each legal entity

All information you provide is strictly confidential.

Survey information

Selection criteria: UK trading businesses registered for Value Added Tax (VAT) and/or Pay As You Earn (PAYE)
Population: approximately 8,200
Sample: approximately 200
Frequency: annually

Dispatch date

4 May

Return-by date

11 June

Dispatch and return-by dates are a guide. They are subject to change due to national holidays and weekends.

Why you were selected

Your business has been selected from a directory of businesses in the UK that are registered for VAT and/or PAYE or with Companies House. Your response ensures we represent your industry.

The OFATS survey is conducted under the provisions of the Statistics of Trade Act 1947. Once selected, your business is legally obliged to comply. You cannot appeal your selection.

How to complete this survey

Your letter explains how to complete this survey online. Please use your unique enrolment code to report your information.

Complete this survey online

How to find out more information

You can call us on 0300 1234 931. Please contact us on 0300 1234 921 if you would like to speak to someone in Welsh.

Er mwyn gwneud cais am ffurflen Gymraeg - 0300 1234 921.