You can start a business in Scotland as a non-UK national if you are from the European Economic Area (EEA). If you are from outside the EEA, you will need to get a visa.
Overview
European Economic Area (EEA) nationals do not need permission to
start a business in the UK. If you are from outside the EEA, you
can start a business in Scotland but you will need to get a visa.
However, you will have permission if you have already been
granted permanent resident status.
This guide outlines the different visa options and where you can
go for advice.
Who needs a visa to start up a business in Scotland?
European Economic Area (EEA) nationals do not need permission to
come to the UK and set up a business. The EEA is made up of the 27
European Union member states plus Iceland, Norway and
Liechtenstein.
Romanian
and Bulgarian nationals are advised to obtain a registration
certificate by completing form BR1 from the UK Border Agency. This
confirms their right to be self-employed. Switzerland is not part
of the EEA but Swiss nationals can set up a business without formal
permission from the UK Border Agency.
All non-EEA nationals need a visa in order to
start a business in Scotland. Your visa options under the UK Border
Agency's Points-Based System for immigration include:
Tier 1 Entrepreneurs - for entrepreneurs
with at least £200,000 (or only £50,000 for high-potential
businesses) to invest in their business.
Tier 1 Post-Study Work - for students who have
completed their studies in the UK.
Tier 1 General - this visa is now closed to
new applicants - however, those who already hold this visa can work
or run their own business in the UK.
You can also start up a business if you have a
UK Ancestry visa. Commonwealth citizens aged 17 and over who
can provide proof that one of their grandparents was born in the UK
may be able to apply for this visa.
Support for non-UK entrepreneurs in Scotland
The Scottish Government's TalentScotland website offers advice for
people who want to start a business in Scotland.
The Scottish Government's Relocation Advisory Service (RAS) provides
free information on relocating to Scotland, including advice on
visa and immigration issues.
Scottish
Development International (SDI) helps overseas businesses
benefit from the business and research opportunities available in
Scotland.
