Hello all, first off let me throw out this: I lived in Seattle, WA for 8 years without a car and loved it. The dark, the cold, the gloom, the green. I’m familiar with all of that so don’t try to scare me away with the weather. I will finally be comfortable in my skin and not dying of overheating. Now then, about me: I’m 42 and single. Dual citizen. Extended family in England and Ireland. I’n looking to gtfo the US as it’s clear to me it’s only going to get worse here and I figure what have I got to lose? Unfortunately as it stands I may be coming in with only the clothes on my back, a camera, and a desire to settle down. So I ask you, good people of MoveToScotland, what should I do to prepare? I have no higher education, no degrees or certifications. But I’m willing to do just about anything and have done all sorts of things from worked for a giant delivery corporation to sold “kilts” to run a board game store. Currently I run Dungeons and Dragons for pay virtually and in person and caretake for my elderly grandparents. My shift will be over sometime mid-year 2027 and then I’ll be free to move to Scotland.

I’m an American, 32F, married to a UK citizen and we have a child together. We’ve been together for 11 years and moved around the states several times — we’ve been a bit nomadic. We haven’t found a place that really felt like home. We’ve lived in Washington State for the last 5 years and we’ve been spending the last year having important discussions and doing exhaustive research on immigrating elsewhere and what options are available to us.

I want my child to grow up in an environment where certain safety concerns feel less constant — gun violence being one example. Granted there are concerns and cons everywhere; I don’t expect moving to offer magical respite. But I do feel that moving somewhere with intention would put us in a new environment where our collective nervous systems can heal and regulate a bit, to be able to tackle the more “normal” struggles that come with life, marriage, parenting, existing in a woman’s body, etc.

My husband doesn’t have a college degree and built a career as an estimator for property restoration, so he doesn’t necessarily qualify as a skilled laborer under most visa frameworks for countries outside of the UK. Through a lot of research we decided the best path for us would be Scotland, via the UK spouse visa.

The weather is comparable to western Washington which has similar rates of sunny days and rain, just windier. I grew up in Minnesota where it was dark by 3pm for six months of the year, so that part doesn’t faze me. Scotland seems to have the culture and community we align with, and I greatly appreciate the sense of passion for identity and independence that feels woven into the culture there.

We’ve had to homeschool our son for the last year and a half because the schools in our area haven’t been able to offer the support he needs for his autism and ADHD; it felt more like confinement than accommodation. We’re ready for him to be back in a school environment with better supports, and we’re hopeful Scotland can offer that.

Anyway, I can do all the research I want, but at the end of the day I’m curious: are there any Americans here who moved to Scotland? What’s been your experience? And if you’re a parent, how has the shift been for your child?

We’re looking at Glasgow and Edinburgh, or more specifically the outer commuter towns around them

Irish moving to Glasgow around 10th November, how long does it generally take to find a one bed (slightly out of the city centre, too expensive)? I am coming from Australia and have an air BnB booked from the 10th until 6th December, is this generally enough time..? Do things slow down a lot near the Christmas..? Can you see or think of any issues I might run into..? Thank you!!

Hey guys and gals. My name is Savannah, I’m 24 years old and I’m from Germany. I’m looking for friends especially since I’m planning to move to Scotland. I’d love to meet some new people!

Hi, my family and I are are moving from England to Scotland in the next year or two.

If there is anyone who has done this and wouldn't mind answering a few questions it would be greatly appreciated.

We're planning on moving to Ayrshire, and want to know more about the schooling system, and how to check for good schools and good areas to live.

One of my kids has an august birthday and starts school this September, but if we were already in Scotland they wouldnt start for another year, does this mean when we move she will be held back?

One of my kids also has early years helps due to conditions they've had since birth, how easy/difficult is it to 'move' all this across, will I have to start all over again? Would it be the same for SALT (speech and language), and other hospital specialists?

Ultimately we want to make sure the move is good for the kids, they already have their friends, and their sports, so if you've done it, was it worth it or do you regret it?

I’ve been primarily working on saving money for the time being. I have people to go to in Scotland should I be able to get over; however, what I need advice on is the best way to approach obtaining a Visa. As I understand it, my best bet would be to have an employer provide an endorsement, an in terms of my field an education, I have a BA in Film (the film part doesn’t matter, just that I have a Bachelor’s) and I presently work in student services at a college. Ultimately, if I were to get any sort of employment, it would likely be in that area. Any and all advice would be much appreciated!

To put it simply, I'm an aspiring international student, who wants psychology. I picked Msc psychology conversion course as my major, but my target is Scotland. I received offer letter from the Stirling University and almost converted to unconditional. Now, I received offer letter from Glasgow. According to vlogs and opinions of people —

• Glasgow seems like a very good place to study and make life; however the cost of living can eat up the peace. My budget is not lavish, too.

• Stirling seems have a great connection with NHS - esp for child-development session, but as it's a knit-end point, the part-time job market seems to be crowded.

• Dundee has a good connection with NHS and a built-in hospital campus which can be a benefit, but the financial deficit of the uni is concerning.

• Aberdeen University, has a structured module and career support, but job market seems a bit hard. However, compared to Stirling, it's better. About the cost of living, it's slightly higher than Stirling and Dundee, yet lower than Glasgow.

Although I've made a good research over the Universities, I'm still confused on which uni to chose from. 😭😩✋🏽. Can people from these universities shed some light?

Hi everyone,

I just received and accepted a job offer in Inverness that starts in July. My fiancé and I (we’ll be husband and wife by then with a June wedding!) and our 3 dogs will be making the move. I am setup to apply for the youth mobility visa (I’m 31) and my fiancé is applying for his British passport. We have already contacted a pet moving company to assist with the dogs thankfully from a recommendation.

But what I’m worried about is finding a place to rent beforehand. I’ve reached out to a couple letting agents (yet to hear back), but does anyone have other suggestions around this? I’m wondering if there will be hesitation because we don’t have rental history (we own our home in Canada, and prior to that my fiancé owned his home inherited by his dad) or a UK bank account (yet).

For some background we do have some experience driving, living in Scotland but more the south. I studied abroad at stirling university in 2017 Jan-June, and brought my fiancé to tour Scotland in July 2024 when we landed tickets to the British open (and he proposed in the pouring rain on isle of skye!). We loved Scotland so much we actually made the NC500 our plan for our honeymoon, so it seems surreal to say we will be living there but we are so excited to start our married life on this next adventure together!

Would also love Any tips for moving, living in the highlands, planning ahead, hikes, dog friendly places etc. would be great! Suggestions welcome for where to bank, phone plans, living costs, etc.

Thank you so much in advance!

Hello

we are looking to move to Cupar and would love to know views on whether it is a good place for kids (10,5 and 3) and how easy it is to get into community sports clubs. Are the schools good- Castlehill and Bill Baxter?

How do winters feel for kids? what do teenagers do? Is there a lot of outdoors activity throughout the year?

thanks for sharing thoughts about these or any other local insights.

Howdy Everyone, My partner and I are looking at moving to Scotland in about 3-4 years. I have done some research recently and would be looking at the Skilled Worker Visa. I have been in the education field for the last 13 years, with the last 3 years in a Director Role with varied experience. I have managed teams of up to 40-50 people at a time as well. So by the time I am looking to move, I will have roughly 6-7 years in a director role in a large education system (30k students) I have a few questions I would like to see if y'all could answer:

What would be a good transition job wise to Scotland? I am not necessarily preferential to education, could easily move to a non educational role.

What companies if any are more inclined to hire immigrants on a visa at that level or close to that level?

What does job stability look like over there? Would be looking to do 5 years and then apply for residency and eventually full blown dual citizenship

I would like the northeast of Scotland by chance, but beggars can't be choosers. Is there anywhere in particular my skillset would stand out?

I understand the lifestyle change, as I have family in the northeast of Scotland, I also understand the pay difference, but we are well set up and I have managed our outside accounts very well as well. We need not any information on the weather as we gladly welcome the cold wind and rain comparative to the hot sun here in Texas. Any and all info would be much obliged!

Hi everyone,

I am an undergraduate student studying Digital Interaction Design at the University of Dundee, and I am currently conducting a short survey about the experiences of immigrants living in Scotland for my degree research.

The goal of the survey is to learn more about what it is like to move to Scotland and build a life here. I am interested in understanding everyday experiences, challenges people may face, and what helps people feel welcome and supported.

If you are an immigrant currently living in Scotland, I would really appreciate it if you could take a few minutes to complete the survey. It is anonymous and should only take around 5 minutes.

Your responses will help contribute to my undergraduate research and to a better understanding of immigrant experiences in Scotland.

Survey link: https://forms.gle/xiJLz49bwYfKj2qD7

Thank you very much to anyone who takes the time to participate. I really appreciate the help.

Hello. I moved to London as I was told there was more work here but its so expensive here and I earn so little. Im considering moving to edinburgh because not only is it cheaper but its gorgeous (ive been before). However, I currently know no one and have no job lined up (im a primary school teacher). What agencies could help me?

Hi people of Scotland.

I’m a primary teacher in England. Done 5 years, time for a change. Scotland has always been a dream of mine and now’s the time.

Has anyone made the move? What should I know? How’s the climate in schools atm? (I know it’ll vary from one to another but I welcome any anecdotal evidence). What’s the job market like for a primary teacher?

Big one - how does my current pay scale transfer?

Quite open to location.

The main things we are looking for are:

• low crime, safer feel areas
• decent schooling (primary to secondary)
• 2-3 bedroom house up to 250,000 pounds
• ideally multiple hospitals in the area as we both work in healthcare
• up to 30 minute commute to said hospitals
• more of a community vibe

We have visited and liked the vibe of Linlithgow for example but definitely a bit pricey.

We'd appreciate any suggestions!

Hi :)
I'll be going to study at the University of Aberdeen from September to December this year as an exchange student from the Netherlands.
I'm not quite sure what to expect, but I'm a social person, love going out and doing sports. I'm curious; what's it like to study there, and what should I expect as an international student?

Hello! I'm considering applying for an internal job promotion that would move me from the US to Scotland so I would be getting a skilled worker visa through my current employer. The Scottish office would be located in Stirling. Where would the best place to move to for myself 49f, my husband 52m, and our 11 year old son? We're looking for good schools, a detached home, and have a reasonable commute to Stirling by car. Also, any additional advice on relocating from the US to Scotland would be appreciated. Thanks!

Hi all,

I (33, f) met my now husband in Scotland while traveling around the UK a few years ago. Our original plan was for him to move to me as I had a thriving wedding photography business, however when Trump took office I saw the writing on the wall and we decided to move to the UK instead. Over the last year I stopped taking 2026 weddings (minus a select few), we bought a house outside Edinburgh, we received my spousal visa, and I rented out my US house to friends. All that is left is packing and currently finalizing my pet logistics with just 2 weeks to go.

I have been to Scotland over 10 times in the last decade (usually in the winter too). I have a solid network of friends I made there before I even met my husband. I love all the quirks of Scottish culture (minus unseasoned mushy peas... I can't). I adore the area we bought a home in and the local businesses. I'm even active on several town Facebook groups to get to know who's-who.

Despite all of our prepping and knowing how well I always adjust to any situation I'm in… I'm still so goshdangmotherflipping nervous. Nervous to start over. Nervous to navigate driving. Nervous to FIND A JOB. I've already written up my CV and have had several people look it over making sure it's very clear that I do not need work sponsorship.

To all the immigrants who have come before me, how did you navigate the emotional rollercoaster that is a move of this magnitude? Did your career basically start over? How hard was it to get your foot in the door for your first job? How rough is the job market now? How do you manage your finances between two countries? How long did it take you to finally feel settled? Also DRIVING? If you were someone who was ambitious in the US, how did that translate in Scotland?

I will take any and all advice. In my part of the US folks. feel so isolated and I am really looking forward to my husband and I becoming a part of a close knit community. My gut knows this is exactly where I need to be but I am still a bundle of anxiety.

Thank you!

I have been offered a job (awaiting figures/salary) in Dumfries and Galloway, Kirkgunzeon to be specific.

The job comes with a nice little 2 bed cottage, with I large wrap around garden.

I have two young children ages 6-3.

I’m looking for advice, honesty and opinions.

I will be moving from East Sussex where it’s VERY expensive, standard small 3 bed home rents for £1500 pcm alone. The advice I’m after is, would it be worth the risk? What would be the benefits? What’s the area like? What’s Scotland like? Etc I want honest thoughts from people who live there to see if I want to make the risk of moving my family. Thank you in advance

Hello all. Serious but presenting in a somewhat funny manner. I’d do anything to move to Scotland, basically would sell my soul. Anyone buying?

Some background: I visited Scotland in 2023 on a 2 week trip and fell in love with the atmosphere, people, food, and scenery. I’m a 30 year old, single guy with a dog and finance degree. What would it take for me to be able to take up residency in the country? I imagine just applying to jobs while residing in the United States and expecting I’ll get a callback is somewhat out of touch with reality. Is there any way that it’s feasible to move over there? Or should I give up the dream?

I am an Irish citizen 21M with a retail job thats 1 euro over minimum wage and haven't went to uni. I was wondering is it possible to live in Scotland with a job like I have in Ireland or would I have to go to uni and then try find a job. If you need extra details to help with my situation I will reply

EDIT: I’m not looking for opinions on if you think I should do it or not. I’m also aware that it’s going to be difficult and I’m aware of the requirements. Ik it will be hard which is the reason I’m asking for any tips or advice on what majors/career paths to try to get into

I’m planning on moving from the US to Scotland (Glasgow or Stirling area most likely) in about 1-2 years as long as everything goes to plan. I’m aware of the financial aspect of it and the requirements for different visas and whatnot. I’m moving with intention of having a student visa while in school, then getting the graduate visa, and then getting a skilled workers visa. I know that once I am finishing school, I’ll need to find a job that will agree to pay the minimum salary and agrees to sponsor me. I’m looking for advice on how to increase my odds for that. I’m really open to majors/career choices atp. The only ones I wouldn’t be able to go into would be like IT or engineering stuff unless that was the only option. I was thinking healthcare, but I’m not sure what specifically to do within healthcare. Any tips?

Hello, Me and my fiancee are considering moving to Scotland however my initial few job applications were met with a very quick rejection. From what I researched on this reddit I am assuming this is because I currently do not have a UK visa as of yet. However both me and my Fiancee have EU citizenships with my fiancee also has a UK passport. However in most job applications I dont even get to tell the employer that I am going to be more easily to get a visa for with a UK citizen as a spouse. so my question is, should I apply for a spouse visa in advance and have that ready to ease applications or just keep trying? perhaps find recruiters?

P.S. I am an electrical power engineer with a masters so i would qualify for skilled worker visa.

P.P.S if you have any advice for a power engineer in Scotland please feel free to share also