So you want to live/work/retire in the UK…

Let me begin by pointing out that this is NOT the remit of Scotland Time.  We are a travel page and that is our sole focus.

That said, we do have a number of enquiries sent our way from people who are interested in relocating to Scotland.  As someone who has gone through the process myself relatively recently, I’m going to try to give you the information and links that will help you find the answers you need.  Do bear in mind that as Scotland is a part of the United Kingdom, our laws on immigration are governed by Westminster.

For simplicity’s sake, this post will give info on the four main means by which people usually gain residency (note: residency and citizenship are not the same thing.)  These are:
-ancestry
-via employment
-via marriage
-retiring to the UK

See the sites below for further guidance regarding when applications should be submitted, fees, and other relevant information.  They also have links to any/all forms you will need for your application.

1.  Ancestry Visas
https://www.gov.uk/ancestry-visa

2.  Work Visas
There are many different types of work visas available.  It is worth looking through them to see which one might be best for your particular needs.
https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/work-visas

However, unless you have a profession that is on the ‘Shortage Occupation’ list or are lucky enough to be extraordinarily talented in sport or the arts, you will likely need to look into the Tier 2 General Visa.
https://www.gov.uk/tier-2-general

3.  Family Visas
General information for a wide variety of circumstances:
https://www.gov.uk/uk-family-visa

Applying as a partner or spouse:
https://www.gov.uk/uk-family-visa/partner-spouse

4.  Retiring to the UK
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/application-to-settle-in-uk-form-setbus