Who would be entitled to Scottish citizenship?

Citizens of any country who have spent at least ten years living in Scotland at any time and have an ongoing connection with Scotland will also be able to apply for naturalisation – this is an entirely new category, with no current counterpart in British nationality law.

Can your nationality be Scottish?

People born in Scotland are called Scottish or British and can say that they live in Scotland, Britain and/or the UK. Most people in Scotland will say they are Scottish rather than British.

Can I get a Scottish passport if my great grandparent was Scottish?

People with Scottish descent (a parent or grandparent who qualifies for Scottish citizenship) would be able to apply for Scottish citizenship. Likewise, anyone who has lived in Scotland for at least 10 years at any point in their life and can show a ‘demonstrable connection’ to Scotland could apply for citizenship.

Can I become Scottish?

As part of the United Kingdom, you can only become a Scottish citizen by becoming a British citizen. All applications for British citizenship, residency, or visas are made to the UK Border Agency. There are several requirements you need to meet to qualify for citizenship.

Is healthcare in Scotland free?

Comprehensive free healthcare is available to all people living in Scotland. With our Government’s commitment to creating a healthier Scotland meaning your health is in very good hands.

What is my nationality if I was born in Scotland?

Anybody born in Scotland will automatically qualify for a passport, even if they have not lived in Scotland. This is a birth rite and any child born after independence to Scottish parents will also be a Scottish citizen. British citizens residing in Scotland will also get the nationality if they are residing in Scotland at the time of independence.

What happens to the law when Scotland becomes independent?

Following independence, existing laws, whether passed by the Westminster or the Scottish Parliament, will continue to apply until they are amended by the independent Scottish Parliament. Human rights will continue to be protected, as they are for devolved matters under the Scotland Act 1998.

How do I become a citizen of Scotland as an immigrant?

Migrants who are in Scotland legally, as well as anyone who has spent at least ten years living in Scotland at any time and has an ongoing connection with Scotland can apply for naturalisation as a Scottish citizen. You will need to meet requirements set out under Scottish immigration law, such as good character and residency.

Should there be a second Scottish independence referendum after Brexit?

Leading figures supportive of Scottish independence have suggested that following the UK vote to leave the EU while Scotland voted to remain in the EU, a second Scottish independence referendum should be precipitated.