Scotland's Migration Service expanded

The service will support newcomers to settle in Scotland, helping more people and also employers to navigate the immigration system, and hopefully attract more working-age people to Scotland. It is hoped that this will help address skills shortages and curb population decline.

Equalities Minister Kaukab Stewart launched the expanded service on a visit to iGii, a technology business in Stirling that benefitted from advice from the first phase of Scotland’s Migration Service on hiring skilled workers from abroad.

Ms Stewart commented: “Population decline is one of the biggest challenges for Scotland’s future, with all population growth projected to come from migration. Expanding Scotland’s Migration Service will help ensure that communities, public services and businesses can access the people and workforces they need to thrive into the future.

“Supporting migration also has significant potential boost our economy. For example, attracting 1,000 higher rate taxpayers each year for five years could add £98 million to the Scottish Budget.

“Since launching its first phase earlier this year, Scotland’s Migration Service has provided free advice appointments to more than 150 individuals, employers and investors, and service website pages have been viewed by more than 14 thousand users.”

iGii CEO Jean-Christophe Granier said: “Access to world-class talent is essential for a scaling business like ours, which relies on highly skilled experts in technical scientific fields, often sourced from Scotland’s university network.

“We’re growing quickly, so anything that eases our path to hiring quality talent locally and internationally is helpful.

“We expect the new service to make hiring the talent we need to continue to grow easier and more transparent for both employers and employees.”

To deliver Scotland’s Migration Service, the Scottish Government has partnered with the immigration law firm Seraphus and also with Citizens Advice Scotland.  

Christopher Desira, Director at Seraphus said: “As a partner of Scotland's Migration Service, we’ve seen firsthand how the partial launch has already provided essential support to employers and investors, simplifying the recruitment of international workers”.

“With the full launch, the expanded resources and webinars will enable even more effective access to crucial information, strengthening Scotland’s ability to attract and retain skilled professionals.”

Citizens Advice Scotland CEO Derek Mitchell added: “Since April, our advisers have supported almost 3,300 clients with immigration advice, a 20% increase on the same time last year. By working with Scotland’s Migration Service, we can provide better support for our network and make a meaningful impact to people’s lives.

“Whether you’re an overseas student navigating an extended stay or have recently moved to Scotland, our network of advisers are ready to help people thrive and settle into their new home.”