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This report by the independent Expert Advisory Group on Migration and Population analyses internal migration within Scotland, and between Scotland and the rest of the UK (rUK), assessing its geographic distribution, dynamics and impacts.

This report analyses internal migration within Scotland, and between Scotland and the rest of the UK (rUK). While there has been considerable focus on international migration to Scotland in the UK, far less attention has been paid to internal migratory flows. This is partly because there are no legal restrictions to such mobility, meaning that internal movement tends not to be the object of immigration policy measures. Nonetheless, internal migration has significant impacts on both sending and receiving areas, affecting population structure, labour markets and economic growth, as well as the attractiveness and viability of local communities. It is therefore important to understand the geographic distribution, dynamics and impacts of internal migration. This report draws on a range of administrative, survey and census data that can help us understand patterns of internal migration. The most recent data available at the time of writing is used throughout. Such analysis can also help inform the range of measures that can be taken at local and national level to incentivise or support internal movement and settlement.

Internal Migration in Scotland and the UK: Trends and Policy Lessons 76 page PDF 2.5 MB