A possible second Scottish independence referendum should not be blocked by the UK government, Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson has said.
Scottish citizenship
After the English-led vote to leave the EU, the SNP has raised the prospect of a second referendum on independence. But who would be eligible for citizenship? The Scottish government has already outlined the hypothetical requirements.
Unsurprisingly, any British citizens born in Scotland will be automatic citizens of Scotland, regardless of whether they are currently living there. Any children born after independence to a parent who is a citizen of Scotland will also be a citizen.
In addition, British citizens "habitually resident" in Scotland at the time of independence will also be automatically considered. There is no fixed time that determines this – "habitually resident" is defined as "where the person has habitually and normally resided for a settled purpose apart from temporary or occasional absences".
But what about those not born or resident in Scotland? After independence, the following categories will be eligible to apply for citizenship:
British nationals living outside Scotland who register with evidence of at least one parent who qualifies for Scottish citizenship.
Citizens of any country, who register with evidence of a parent or grandparent who qualifies for Scottish citizenship.
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.