An independent Scotland could offer an incentive package to people from other countries who make their home there, a new report will suggest.
The sustainable growth commission – which was set up by the SNP to look at future economic prospects – will set out proposals for a “Come to Scotland” package as part of efforts to boost the country’s population.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has already said the report will “restart the debate” about Scottish independence.
The document by former SNP MSP Andrew Wilson sets out how the country can use the “3 Ps” – population, participation and productivity – in a bid to grow the economy.
The long-awaited report will argue an independent Scotland could be among the most successful small economies in the world, providing an economic boost that is equivalent of £4100 per person.
There are currently about 429,000 people living in Scotland who were born outside of the UK – with this group contributing £1.3bn to public coffers.
The 354-page report includes 30 recommendations on how to grow the economy, including a new visa system for Scotland which would be in contrast to the “UK Tory government’s hostile approach to migration”.
Demographic trends mean Scotland needs to attract people to boost its working-age population, with the report setting the goal of the country retaining an additional 5000 overseas graduates each year.
This, the commission will claim, could be worth £1.5bn a year to the economy within a decade.
Highly-skilled workers moving to Scotland could get “transitional relief” on their income tax to help offset the costs of relocating, it will suggest.
Meanwhile, entrepreneurs could benefit from reduced costs and increased support.
Speaking ahead of the publication of Scotland: A New Case for Optimism, Wilson said: “We have a great opportunity for Scotland to strike a completely different tone on a vitally important area of economic policy – how we attract talent to our country.
“For the next 25 years all of Scotland’s projected population growth is expected to…
