Rural Visa Pilot plan aims to tackle depopulation in the Highlands and other remote areas in Scotland
Earlier this week the Scottish Government tabled a Rural Visa Pilot proposal in a bid to stem the depopulation of places like the Highlands.
The programme offers a community-driven approach to migration that can respond to the distinct needs of “remote, rural, and island areas” that are not met within the current immigration system.
In making the call for cross-party support, constitution secretary Angus Robertson argued that Scotland has its own distinct immigration requirements, different from the rest of the UK.
The MSP said: “Population growth is a significant driver of our economy and any projected fall in population is likely to have significant implications for public finances and the delivery of key public services, especially in Scotland’s most remote and rural areas.
“Many of these communities are already experiencing acute depopulation and labour market challenges as a result of a deeply damaging Brexit and the end of freedom of movement, which has cut off a valuable and ready supply of workers to fill key posts.”
