Orkney Islands

Country Coastal Beaches

Population: 22k

Cost of Living: Moderate

Train Access: No

Bus Access: Yes (Stagecoach Orkney)

Weather: The weather in Orkney Islands is typically maritime, with mild winters, cool summers, and frequent wind and rain throughout the year.

The Orkney Islands are an archipelago in the Northern Isles of Scotland, characterized by a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Comprising approximately 70 islands, of which 20 are inhabited, Orkney is known for its ancient Neolithic sites, rugged coastline, and diverse wildlife. The heart of Orkney's heritage can be found at the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which includes the well-preserved Skara Brae, the mystical standing stones of the Ring of Brodgar, and the chambered cairn of Maeshowe. The islands' landscape is relatively flat, with rolling green fields and heather-covered moorland, providing a habitat for a variety of bird species. Orkney's main town, Kirkwall, features the impressive St. Magnus Cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, and a bustling harbor. The islands have a strong maritime tradition, with fishing and ferry services being vital to the local economy. The community is close-knit, with a focus on preserving their unique way of life and traditions, such as the annual Up Helly Aa fire festival. Despite its remote location, Orkney has a vibrant arts scene, with galleries, craft shops, and music events showcasing local talent. The islands offer a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life, with opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching.

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Visa & Residency

Difficulty Obtaining: average

Popular Expat Visa/s: Tier 2 Visa, Tier 1 Visa

Popular Nomad Visa/s: Standard Visitor visa, and it allows them to stay for up to 6 months

Obtaining a residency in Scotland, which is part of the United Kingdom, involves navigating the UK's system. The process can be complex, but it is well-documented and manageable for most expats. The most common types of visas that expats apply for are the Tier 2 Visa, which is for skilled workers with a job offer in the UK, and the Tier 1 Visa, which includes categories like the Global Talent Visa for leaders in certain fields, the Investor Visa for high-net-worth individuals, and the Entrepreneur Visa for those starting or running businesses in the UK. To apply for a Tier 2 Visa, an individual must have a job offer from a UK employer who holds a valid Tier 2 sponsorship license. The job offer must meet the minimum salary threshold and the role should be at a certain skill level. The applicant also needs to prove their knowledge of English and have enough savings to support themselves without accessing public funds. The Tier 1 Visa categories have different requirements. For example, the Global Talent Visa requires the applicant to be endorsed by a recognized UK body as a leader or potential leader in their field. The Investor Visa requires a substantial financial investment in the UK, while the Entrepreneur Visa requires a viable business plan and investment funds. Digital nomads often use the Standard Visitor visa, which allows them to stay in the UK for up to 6 months. This visa is not specifically designed for digital nomads, and it does not allow them to work in the UK, but it can be used for business-related activities such as attending meetings or conferences. The application process for UK visas typically involves completing an online application form, providing various supporting documents, paying the visa fee, and attending an appointment at a visa application center for biometrics. The processing time can vary, but it generally takes a few weeks for a decision to be made. It is important to note that the UK's immigration rules are subject to change, so applicants should always check the latest requirements on the official UK government website. Overall, while the process can be detailed and requires careful preparation, it is considered average in terms of difficulty compared to other countries.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in the Orkney Islands is moderate, with expenses such as housing and transportation being higher due to the remote location, but this is somewhat offset by the close community and the availability of local resources.

Weather

The weather in Orkney Islands is typically maritime, with mild winters, cool summers, and frequent wind and rain throughout the year.

Healthcare in Orkney Islands

The Orkney Islands are served by the Balfour Hospital in Kirkwall, which provides a range of healthcare services including accident and emergency, inpatient, outpatient, and day services. It is the main healthcare facility for the residents of the Orkney Islands and has undergone recent redevelopment to improve its facilities and services.

Restaurants in Orkney Islands

Orkney offers a variety of dining experiences, from the high-end Foveran Restaurant, known for its local produce and seafood, to the moderately priced Helgi's, which offers a cozy atmosphere and a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes. The Kirkwall Hotel features a restaurant with a view of the harbor and serves local cuisine at a mid-range price point. For a more casual dining experience, visitors can enjoy the Orkney Fish and Chip Shop for classic British takeaway.