Living in Edinburgh: the ultimate expat guide
Everything you need to know for a successful life in Edinburgh.
Iconic capital of Scotland, Edinburg is a choice destination for expatriation. By moving there, you will be delighted by its vibrant cosmopolitan environment, its amazing architecture and its breathtaking countryside landscapes.
With the strongest British economy thanks to massive investment, it is a major industrial, cultural and academic hub which attracts expatriates, especially students, in large numbers.
Generalities
Get an overview of living in Edinburgh with general information to discover the destination.
Discover Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a vibrant and historic city, with a broad cultural spectrum of expats. You can expect ...
Adjusting to Edinburgh's culture
Edinburgh is known for its rich heritage, and it is a cultural hotspot, full of fascinating bars, ...
Developing your social circle in Edinburgh
Moving to Edinburgh promises an excellent quality of life, exciting work opportunities, and a ...
Work
Dive into the Edinburgh labour market, legal framework and tips on how to find a job in Edinburgh.
Working in Edinburgh
More and more foreign professionals are looking to move to Edinburgh for work thanks to its vibrant ...
Edinburgh's labour market
One of the most popular destinations in Europe, Edinburgh has not only a rich cultural heritage but ...
The work culture in Edinburgh
If you've decided to move to Edinburgh for work then you're in luck: you can expect ...
Accommodation
Explore real estate or temporary rentals in Edinburgh. Find out more about renting or buying a house or a flat, real estate agents, leases and rental agreements.
Accommodation in Edinburgh
When you first move to Edinburgh, you will likely need rented accommodation. From a room in a ...
Buying property in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is the most expensive city to buy a house in Scotland. There is currently a ...
Popular neighbourhoods in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a city of contrasts. From the old cobbled streets to stunning modern architecture, and ...
Study
Universities, training courses, student visas, registration procedures: all you need to know about being an international student in Edinburgh.
Transport
From public transports to renting or buying a car, explore the best options to getting around in Edinburgh.
Travelling around Edinburgh
Scotland's capital city is simultaneously less densely populated than Glasgow, and very compact. It has developed an efficient transport network ...
Leisure
Sports, leisure, culture and other activities expats can enjoy in their spare time in Edinburgh.
Things do to in Edinburgh alone, with your family or with friends
As well as its popular seasonal events, Edinburgh offers fun leisure activities all year round. ...
Eating out in Edinburgh
Edinburgh has more restaurants per head than anywhere in the UK, making this city a foodies' ...
Things to do on weekdays in Edinburgh
Edinburgh, the Scottish capital city, has a captivating history and much to offer to expats. You ...
Articles from the magazine
Miranda: "Edinburgh has a bit of everything"
Miranda moved from Canada to Scotland in March 2013. Shortly after she met her partner, they decided to travel the world together. They applied to the Youth Mobility Visa for the UK and moved to Edinburgh simply because there is a castle in the middle of the city...
Mel: "I like Edinburgh's history"
Mel comes from Queensland, Australia. During a holiday visit to Edinburgh, she fell in love with the city. She decided to make it her home five years ago.
Sam in Glasgow: "I like living at the doorstep to the Highlands of the north"
Born in Germany, Sam grew up in the US. In January 2014, he settled in Anniesland, Glasgow, Scotland, with his wife and is now studying (and experiencing!) the trailing spouse situation for his PhD's academic research...
Real estate market in London - current market trends
If you're moving to London, you're probably preparing your planned monthly budget. One of the biggest expenses you'll encounter will be the rent, as the real estate market in London might get a bit costly...
Edinburgh: Scotland's irresistable charm
Ashley, an American expat in Scotland talks to Expat.com about the romantic (spoiler) reason behind her decision to move to Edinburgh, Scotland, and how she can now enjoy the best of two worlds. Driving on the "wrong" side of the road and coping with the wet and cold weather have been good enough reasons to give Ashley a cultural shock, but Edinburgh is an easy going place to live in, full of personality and genuinely nice people who will welcome you.
Stricter immigration policies for foreign workers and students in Canada
Continuing with the restrictive immigration policy initiated in 2024, Canada has introduced several new measures in 2025, including the suspension of sponsorship application processes, delays in pathways to permanent residency, and restrictions on work permit eligibility for expatriate spouses. The most recent regulation now allows for the cancellation of work permits and student visas.
How to adapt your professional skills in a new country
Moving abroad is frequently seen as a career boost, but it's important to recognize that skills and qualifications might not always transfer seamlessly across borders. Challenges such as language barriers, changes in status and salary, and unrecognized degrees can lead to a diminished professional identity. How can you safeguard your career value when relocating internationally?
Essential non-academic questions to consider before studying abroad
Studying abroad isn't just about earning a degree or enjoying campus life. You will be immersed in a new culture, your ability to work or even travel will be curtailed by immigration laws, and you will be paying for groceries in another currency. These non-academic factors can shape your study-abroad experience, for better or worse. What important questions should you ask yourself before accepting an offer to study abroad?
