Net migration in Scotland has dropped by more than 60%, figures show, as total population growth has slowed.
Data published on Tuesday shows net migration of 17,900 in the year to mid-2025, substantially down from 47,000 the previous year – a 62% drop.
According to National Records of Scotland (NRS), 50,200 people came to Scotland from the rest of the UK, while 41,600 left for England, Wales or Northern Ireland – a net of 8,600.
A total of 57,600 people came from abroad, compared to 48,300 leaving for international destinations – a net of 9,300.
NEW: Scotland's population was estimated at 5,545,500 at mid-2025, up 2,200 over the year – a smaller increase than in most recent years.
Migration continues to drive population growth, while deaths outnumber births nationally.
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— NatRecordsScot (@NatRecordsScot) July 14, 2026
The population of Scotland increased by just 2,200 – 0.03% – with estimates putting the total at 5,545,500.
Andrew White, head of population and migration statistics at NRS, said: “Scotland’s population is continuing to rise but at a reduced rate compared to recent years.
“This increase is driven by people moving to Scotland from the rest of the UK and internationally.
“In the year to mid-2025, deaths outnumbered births in all council areas except Midlothian and Glasgow city.
“The overall number of deaths registered in Scotland was greater than the number of births, continuing a trend we have seen since 2015.”