EU nationals have played a central role in Scotland’s labour market, public services, and communities for decades. EU nationals have played a central role in Scotland’s labour market, public services, and communities for decades. However, following the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union, the legal and social context for EU nationals has changed significantly. In particular, the introduction of the EU Settlement Scheme, alongside evolving immigration and social security policies, has reshaped access to rights, services, and long-term security for EU citizens and their families.

As a result, understanding how these changes affect EU nationals in Scotland is critical for informed policy development. Moreover, Scotland’s demographic profile, economic needs, and devolved policy landscape mean that the experiences of EU nationals may differ in important ways from those elsewhere in the UK. Therefore, evidence that is specific to the Scottish context is essential.

Who is this factfile for?

This factfile is intended for a range of audiences. In particular, it will be useful for:

• Policy-makers, who require evidence to inform migration, labour market, and integration policy
• Advice, advocacy, and support organisations, which assist EU nationals in navigating legal and administrative systems
• Employers, who seek clarity on workforce trends and relevant legal frameworks
• Researchers, journalists, and students, who are examining migration in Scotland

By bringing together data from official statistics, policy documents, and existing research, the factfile therefore provides a reliable reference point for analysis and decision-making.

Finally, this factfile builds on a Migration Policy Scotland (MPS) event on EU nationals in Scotland held in September 2022. In addition, materials from that event offer further context and expert discussion of key policy challenges. A blog post, recordings, and presentations from the event can be accessed here.