Is it an issue to set up a UK-based website while in Eastern Europe?

Shopify Discussion

Topic summary

Main issue: A UK-registered business owner, temporarily in Eastern Europe, asks if creating a UK-based Shopify store now could cause issues due to an IP address from abroad.

Key points from replies:

  • Generally acceptable to set up the store as UK-based while abroad; Shopify doesn’t typically restrict store setup by current IP location. Consistency of business details (UK address, company info) is crucial for legal/tax compliance.
  • Recommended to contact Shopify Support for clarification and assistance if the account is flagged or blocked.
  • For tax matters, consult a tax professional familiar with UK and international considerations; update Shopify details if circumstances change.

Outcome/status:

  • The asker confirms company details are professionally set up and remains mainly concerned about IP-related delays.
  • No definitive resolution from Shopify in-thread; practical guidance given (proceed with accurate UK info, consult support/tax advisor). Discussion effectively concludes with thanks, but remains open-ended regarding official confirmation.
Summarized with AI on January 8. AI used: gpt-5.
1

Hello everyone,

I am about to start my Shopify website. I have a question regarding my company. So basically for a 5 years now I have been living in The United Kingdom. I have opened my company, so this mean my business is based in the UK. I would like to pay my taxes there and all the documentation is going to be including my company on my residential address in the UK.

However, I am east European and currently I am located in my homeland. I will stay for +2 months. My question is if there will be an issue if I create my store now and set it as an English based, as I guess Shopify will track my IP. I am here because I am doing my production here so I need to stay here for a while. But I read over a few articles that providing one information and actually different IP location is suspicious so I just wanted to make sure it is all good

I look forward to hear useful information.

1 Like
2

Hello @raliyurieva !
Hope you are doing pretty well !
Creating a Shopify store with your company based in the UK and setting it as English-based should generally be fine, even if you are temporarily in your home country. Many businesses operate with a physical location for the company in one country while the owner or employees may be in another location for various reasons.

Shopify typically doesn’t restrict users based on their current IP location when setting up a store. However, it’s important to ensure that all the information you provide during the setup process, such as your company’s address and details, accurately reflects your UK-based business. Consistency in information is essential for legal and tax purposes.

In case Shopify has any specific restrictions or if you have concerns about your account being flagged, it’s advisable to reach out directly to Shopify support for clarification. They can provide you with accurate information and guidance tailored to your situation.

Additionally, for tax purposes, it’s crucial to comply with the regulations of the UK tax authorities. If you have any doubts or concerns about the tax implications of your temporary stay in your home country, it would be wise to consult with a tax professional or advisor who is knowledgeable about international business taxation.

Remember that maintaining accurate and consistent information is key to avoiding any issues, so if your circumstances change, make sure to update your Shopify account accordingly.
Incase your shopify store got blocked by this reason so you may contact support and can discuss about it more with them.
Hope you got the point!
Thanks May God bless you!

3

Thank you for your well explained answer! It is very useful!

I have opened my company through the service of Business tax accountant so I have no doubts regarding my information. I just wondering regarding the IP because I don’t want to lose time in opening it!

Thank you again and have a wonderful evening!

1 Like