NET migration to Scotland more than doubled in the space of a year to its highest level over the last decade, according to fresh statistics.
The National Records of Scotland show between 2020/21 and 2021/22, net migration went from 22,200 to 48,800.
The next highest figure from the last decade was 28,100 in 2018/19.
Equalities minister Kaukab Stewart (below) said with the population falling in many parts of Scotland, continued migration is vital and stats show the warm welcome the country is offering.
She said: “Today’s statistics show Scotland is an attractive and welcoming destination for skilled workers, students and graduates.
“Those who choose Scotland as their home help to build our economy, increase our productivity and contribute to their local communities.
“In many parts of Scotland, the population is falling and it is clear that we need continued migration to support our economy and help our nation to prosper.
“These statistics also reflect the contribution that Scotland has made in offering a warm welcome to people fleeing war and persecution.”
Stewart added that since Russian’s war against Ukraine more than 27,000 people sponsored by a person in Scotland or the Scottish Government have arrived in the UK.
“I am proud of how Scotland has responded to humanitarian crises,” she added.
The statistics show average net migration from other parts of the UK has been fairly stable over the last decade, averaging at +9000 people. It was higher in 2021/22, at +12,500 people.
The net figures for international migration, however, increased from 13,300 in 2020/21 to 36,300 in 2021/22. This was due to a combination of more in-migration in the last year, and lower levels of out-migration over the past two years.
Published data from the Higher Education Statistics Agency shows that the increase in international migration is largely due to a significant increase in the number of international students studying at universities in Scotland.
