The Scottish government has said new visa proposals would help address rural and island depopulation, and encourage rural migration in an independent Scotland.
Under the proposals, the Scottish government said people from around the world would be supported to live, work and raise families in Scotland’s rural and island communities in the event of independence.
The Building a New Scotland prospectus paper focuses on migration in an independent Scotland and sets out how a new Live in Scotland Visa would help to address depopulation in rural areas.
The government said the proposed initiatives will be piloted in particular areas to help migrants settle in rural and island communities – drawing inspiration from similar successful schemes around the world.
Migration Minister, Emma Roddick said: “Migrants already make a vital contribution to Scotland’s economy, society and culture, particularly in rural and island areas.
“With the full powers of a normal independent nation, Scotland’s approach to migration could help ensure we meet our population needs for the future.
“With independence, we can test exciting new ways to attract and support people to make their lives in Scotland.
“This includes activity in particular geographical areas as part of our Live in Scotland Visa to support people with a wide range of skills and characteristics to set down roots in rural and island areas.”
Migration and depopulation
Roddick said the aim of these initiatives will be to support migrants to raise families, create opportunities, and enrich communities in every part of the country – while also supporting those communities to welcome, manage and include new residents.
“Importantly, we learn from countries like Canada where targeted migration schemes have benefited rural provinces and territories,” she said.
“Helping tackle the challenge of depopulation, inward migration of people who want to come to live, study and work in Scotland would also boost local economies and support public services, helping these places grow and flourish well into the future.”
The Scottish government said proposals for pilots to attract and support people to live in particular geographical areas would be developed in collaboration with local and national delivery partners, communities and our Expert Advisory Group on Migration and Population.
