Moving To Scotland - advice and information

Moving to Scotland has become a reality for thousands of people every year. Despite this, the country was traditionally known as one of emigration. The mid-60's, for instance, saw a net outflow of approximately 40,000 people per year.

But trends change, and inflows and outflows have equalized since the early 1990's. In the last few years, there have been in-migration gains of approximately 9,000 in 2002/3, 26,000 in 2003/4 and 19,000 in 2004/5.

The Scottish people have openly welcomed people from all parts of the world to live, work and study, and build prosperous futures in their homeland.

A new service was launched in January 2005 to assist in making the process easier. It's called the Relocation Advisory Service (RAS) and it's an important part of the Fresh Talent Initiative. The Initiative aims to attract people to move to Scotland.

The RAS offers a phone, face to face, and web-based service to people wishing to live and work in Scotland. The range of issues dealt with include immigration, education, leisure, employment, accommodation, and cultural opportunities.

Moving in your own country is often a daunting prospect. Moving to another country is even more daunting. So, it's important for your peace of mind and ease of moving to gain as much information as required to make the process as smooth as possible.

Every country has its own rules and regulations. "What goes" in your own country may "not go" in another. A simple example but an important one nonetheless, is driving - we drive on the left, maybe you drive on the right. We're happy to become acquainted with you and your family when you arrive, but we'd prefer it not to be when you’re chugging towards us on the wrong side of the road.

The RAS will help newcomers prepare well for their move, and staff will be there to offer support once you arrive. The most popular enquiries range from how to secure employment, how to open a bank account, quarantine rules, and living on the remote islands.

Scotland offers a variety of locations and environments to choose from. Cities such as Glasgow and Edinburgh offer a cosmopolitan excitement, the Highlands and Islands offer the rural calm of villages and stunning scenery.

If you’re interested in learning more, then you can contact the Relocation Advisory Service through the details below.

The RAS website -

E mail - info@scotlandistheplace.com

Phone - UK 0845 602 0297 International +44 141 248 2808

By post - Relocation Advisory Service, Third Floor, Scottish Executive, Meridian Court, 5 Cadogan
Street, Glasgow G2 6AT

Back to Top