Immigration Support Surges in Scotland

Support for reduced immigration levels in Scotland has surged, with half of the population now wanting to see numbers slashed, according to recent research. This marks a significant shift from 2023 when only 28 percent held similar views.

Academics found that 33 percent of Scottish adults desire a substantial reduction in immigration, while an additional 18 percent wish for a slight decrease, bringing the total support for cuts to 50 percent. Conversely, only 7 percent advocate for a significant increase, and 16 percent prefer a minor rise, with 27 percent wishing for current levels to remain unchanged.

Scottish Conservative MSP Stephen Kerr stated that the findings should serve as an "urgent wake-up call" to what he described as "pathetically weak Labour ministers." He contended that Scots are increasingly concerned about the impact of immigration, particularly illegal immigration, on their communities, a sentiment he believes is overlooked by left-wing politicians.

"John Swinney is so relaxed that he continues to promote a reckless open borders policy and refuses to reinstate common-sense local connection rules," Kerr added. He contrasted this with the Conservative party's approach, led by Kemi Badenoch, which he characterized as having "the toughest reforms Britain has ever seen to border laws and operations." Kerr concluded that both the Scottish and UK governments are "dangerously complacent on this issue."

Thomas Kerr, deputy leader of Reform UK Scotland, commented that voters have long called for lower immigration, only to be ignored or "smeared as racist." He argued that while the SNP and Labour emphasize the benefits of immigration, the public observes the strain on housing, limited GP appointments, and essential services.

"The old parties have been completely out of step with the public on immigration for years and that is why Reform exists," Thomas Kerr said. "Reform’s position is simple: stop mass illegal migration and things will start to get better for local Scots."

The research by Migration Policy Scotland also revealed that 49 percent of people in Scotland believe migration has a positive impact on the country, while 32 percent perceive a negative impact, and 11 percent remain neutral.

However, the data indicates that 64 percent of those in Scotland who have direct contact with immigrants support increased skilled migration and are more likely to view it positively. Dr. Rebecca Kay, associate director at Migration Policy Scotland, noted that even as net international migration to Scotland has decreased, opinions on immigration and its effects are becoming more entrenched. She described a "generalised shift towards more negative opinions," but also highlighted that the detailed data presents a more complex picture that could aid in rebuilding consensus.

These findings follow recent Scottish Government figures showing a 40 percent increase in refugees and legal migrants declaring themselves homeless in Scotland in 2025-26 compared to the previous year, with 6,995 individuals reporting homelessness.