Page 4 - International Buyers Guide

Can you move here?

Visas and immigration
Morningside
Scotland is part of the UK, so immigration rules
are set by the UK Government rather than
the Scottish Government. Depending on your
circumstances, you may need a visa to work,
study, join family, start a business or live in the
UK long term. Common routes include Skilled
Worker, Health and Care Worker, Student,
Graduate, Family and Global Talent visas, each
with its own eligibility criteria, fees, evidence
requirements and conditions.

Innerleithen

Buying property as a non-UK
resident

In general, you do not need to be a UK citizen
or UK resident to buy property in Scotland.
However, buying as an overseas purchaser does
involve some extra practical steps, including
arranging finance, appointing a Scottish solicitor,
proving your identity, and showing where your
purchase funds have come from.

The Scottish buying process is different from
the rest of the UK, so it helps to get local advice
early. A solicitor can explain the offer process,
missives, settlement dates, tax responsibilities
and anti-money laundering checks. If you need
a mortgage, speak to a lender or broker before
you start viewing seriously, so you understand
deposit requirements, affordability checks,
and whether your residency or income source
affects your options.

4 | Buying in Scotland