Setting up your business
Get expert advice on setting up a business in Scotland, including information on how to structure and register your business, choose a location, access talent, and find an accountant and solicitor.
You'll also find guidance on taxes, laws, insurance, immigration and more – so you can make sure your business is on solid ground as you scale up your innovation and pursue opportunities in Scotland's high growth industries of the future.
How we can help you
Our guidance and support begins at the planning stage and carries on through setup, development, and the day-to-day running of your business. We’ll help you find investment opportunities, access funding, find the right location and premises, and contact potential partners.
Set up a business in Scotland
Scotland is the perfect place to locate your business, with a wealth of investment and trade opportunities in both established and high growth industries.
You'll benefit from our world-class talent and high quality of life, with a focus on groundbreaking innovation that will help your business realise its biggest and brightest ambitions – all within a supportive, sustainable business ecosystem that's primed to help your company thrive.
Find out more and get practical guidance on setting up a business in Scotland.
How to set up a company in Scotland
Get step-by-step advice on setting up a business in Scotland. You'll need to consider important aspects such as which company structure to choose, getting the right insurance and finding an accountant and solicitor.
Choosing your business location
Scotland offers the best locations for your business to thrive in industries such as space, software and IT, energy transition, science and tech, and more. Find guidance on choosing the right location for your business needs.
Employment law, regulations and policies
As a business in Scotland, you'll need to consider specific requirements outlined by employment laws, regulations and policies. Find out more in this guide.
Business laws and regulations
Health and safety, advertising, data protection and bribery are just some of the legal areas that affect businesses in Scotland. Read on to make sure you're aware of the regulations.
Accessing talent
Get advice on recruitment and where you can find the best Scottish and international talent, plus information and guidance on the UK immigration and visa system.
Business tax
At 25%, Scotland and the rest of the UK have the lowest corporation tax rate of any G7 country. Find out about tax requirements and competitive rates for your business.
Professional and legal advice
Professional advice can be invaluable when you're setting up your business. The Institute of Chartered Accountants in Scotland and the Law Society of Scotland can help advise you on tax, legal and insurance requirements. Find out how to get in touch.
National minimum wage and salaries
Salaries in Scotland vary according to the type of work, the sector and where the job is located. The National Minimum Wage is the minimum rate you must pay your employees. Learn more about salaries in Scotland.
Immigration and visas
Scotland is governed by the same visa rules and legislation as the rest of the UK. There are different types of visa and immigration requirements to consider if you want to relocate to or invest in Scotland. Find out how you can get help from Scotland's Migration Service.
Living in Scotland
Scotland is the place to enjoy an excellent quality of life, low cost of living, and a creative and collaborative business culture. It's a progressive country that's equal, tolerant, inclusive, and feels like home. Discover what it's like to live here.
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Want to know more?
If you have any questions and would like to talk with one of our advisers, we're ready to help.