Immigration ‘critical’ in filling job gaps in Scotland, minister insists

The Scottish Government has proposed a distinct Scottish visa system with immigration key to filling skills gap areas.

The Scottish Government has proposed a distinct Scottish visa system and believe immigration is “critical” to fill skills gaps in areas where the population is falling.

The SNP’s Business Minister Tom Arthur has set out proposals in a new policy paper. This includes plans for a Scottish visa, a rural visa and Scottish graduate visa to address the needs of different sectors.

Current immigration rules are reserved to Westminster and Arthur highlighted the UK Government’s closure of the adult social care visa route, saying it had created workforce shortages.

He said: “Mirroring a trend in many countries throughout the world, Scotland has an ageing population and areas where the population is falling.

“This makes immigration ever-more critical in ensuring we have working-age people to fill skills gaps, sustain public services, support communities and grow the economy.”

He continued: “A migration system designed around UK-wide averages, which is what we have now, cannot adequately respond to Scotland’s demographic and geographic circumstances.

“In the spirit of the Prime Minister’s public commitment to reset relationships with devolved governments, I have invited the UK Migration Minister to engage with me in constructive discussions to ensure that the immigration system is tailored to Scotland’s needs.”

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