Scotland has its own distinct legal system (Scots law), and Companies House maintains a separate register in Edinburgh. The Companies Act 2006 still applies, so incorporation and filing are broadly the same, but some areas — such as how floating charges and heritable (property) rights work — differ from England. Founders based in or trading mainly with Scotland often incorporate here.
United KingdomNation
Scotland
A separate legal system under the same UK company law.
JurisdictionScotland (Scots law)
RegistryCompanies House (Edinburgh)
Company lawCompanies Act 2006 (UK-wide)
Main hubEdinburgh, Glasgow
In brief
Scotland at a glance
What it takes
What you provide, and what we handle.
What you will need
- At least one director and one shareholder
- A UK registered office address
- Details of people with significant control (PSCs)
- Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes for your activity
How StartEase helps
- Incorporating your Ltd or LLP correctly the first time
- Providing a registered office and handling identity checks
- Corporation Tax, VAT and PAYE registration
- Accounts, confirmation statements and ongoing filing
Step by step
How setup works in United Kingdom.
The path is broadly the same across United Kingdom — Scotland follows this route.
- 01
Structure & name
Decide between a private limited company (Ltd) or LLP and check name availability at Companies House.
- 02
Prepare details
Gather directors, shareholders and people with significant control (PSCs), a UK registered office and your SIC activity codes.
- 03
Identity checks
Complete the identity verification now required for directors and people with significant control.
- 04
Incorporate
File with Companies House — a standard incorporation is usually approved within 24 hours.
- 05
Tax & first filings
Register for Corporation Tax (and VAT/PAYE if needed) and diarise your accounts and confirmation statement.
The government incorporation fee is modest; the larger considerations are your registered office, accounting and any VAT or payroll needs. We quote a clear annual figure so there are no surprises.
A considered first step.
Request a consultationPlanning Scotland? Let’s scope it.
Share your business activity and where you’re starting from.
We’ll help define what comes next.
General information, not legal or tax advice. Service scope and provider responsibilities are agreed before engagement. Government decisions, banking approvals and completion dates are not guaranteed.