27 January 2020

Proposals for a new Scottish Visa to address depopulation and cut skills gaps have been unveiled by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.

They have been designed to work with devolution – but the principles and the practical measures proposed could be adapted should Scotland become independent in future.

The First Minister said:

Migration to Scotland supports economic growth and the delivery of public services and helps to address the serious issue of long term demographic change – as well as enhancing and sustaining our communities.

Yet the latest proposals from the UK Government to control immigration and end freedom of movement would be disastrous for our economy and society and would risk acute labour shortages.

Migration is an issue which is crucial for our future, but the Scottish Government doesn’t currently have the powers needed to deliver tailored immigration policies for Scotland.

Devolving immigration powers by introducing a Scottish Visa would allow Scotland to attract and retain people with the skills and attributes we need for our communities and economy to flourish.”

First Minister @NicolaSturgeon was in Edinburgh to unveil proposals for a new Scottish Visa to address depopulation and cut skills gaps. Find out more➡️https://t.co/hqUithsoBr pic.twitter.com/Xo2m05P6W9

— First Minister (@ScotGovFM) January 27, 2020

Reaction to the First Minister’s announcement:

@COSLA responds to @ScotGovFM announcement for plans for a Scottish Visa.

Read our full statement from President @AlisonEvison here ⬇️⬇️https://t.co/zXJAliIHl4 pic.twitter.com/CijuvvSf1i

— COSLA (@COSLA) January 27, 2020