How SNP political games may scupper hopes for new Scottish visa despite the need for migrants
As births in Scotland hit a new record low, it’s clear that this country needs migrants
Last year, we suggested Scotland should have its own migrant visa system – given our growing population crisis caused by a falling birth rate that is far below the death rate – but also that this probably would not happen.
As promised, the SNP have now drawn up draft plans for how a Scottish visa could work, with a proposed five-year pilot of a rural visa and a Scottish graduate visa.
Of course, this is the sort of thing that the SNP produce every so often as part of their ongoing attempts to portray Scotland as a separate country. The answer from Westminster to such demands for new powers is invariably “no” and, commenting specifically on the nationalists’ visa plans, a Downing Street spokesperson was blunt: “These proposals are not being considered.”
However, a UK government source has told The Scotsman that “the Prime Minister has open ears to any plans that demonstrate a boost to economic growth”, suggesting ministers might be willing to negotiate.
‘A waste of time’
The question then arises as to the SNP’s motivation. Are they truly interested in increasing the size of Scotland’s workforce, particularly in sectors that are struggling to fill vacancies, and boosting the economy by persuading smart people to make their life here? Or are they merely seeking to stage another nationalist stunt?
“Any proposals that are trying to start another constitutional fight and are not in the interest of the country would be a waste of time,” the UK source stressed.
In other countries such as Australia, regional visa systems are reasonably uncontroversial, reflecting the different economic needs of different areas. Were it not for the SNP’s fondness for a “good old-fashioned rammy” – to quote a former political aide to Nicola Sturgeon – Scotland might already have its own visa system.
Figures published this week by Scotland’s Registrar General showed there were 45,067 births registered in 2025, the lowest annual total since records began in 1855. In the same year, there were 61,726 deaths.
We are slowly but steadily running out of native-born Scots. Unless we can attract converts, the consequences for the economy and the country will be severe.
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