Digital Nomad Life in Orkney Islands, Scotland

"Finding a place to live in the Orkney Islands, involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a small apartment to a larger house. Next, you should research the different areas in the Orkney Islands to find a location that suits your lifestyle and needs. Some people might prefer a quiet, rural setting, while others might want to be closer to the amenities of a town. Once you have a clear idea of what you're looking for, you can start your search. There are several online property websites that list rentals and properties for sale in Scotland, including Rightmove, Zoopla, and S1homes. These websites allow you to filter your search based on location, property type, number of bedrooms, and price range. In addition to online searches, you might also want to contact local estate agents in the Orkney Islands. They can provide valuable insight into the local property market and might be able to alert you to suitable properties before they're listed online. If you're planning to rent, you'll typically need to provide references and proof of income. If you're buying a property, you'll need to secure a mortgage unless you're buying outright. Finally, before making a decision, it's a good idea to visit the Orkney Islands to view potential properties in person. This will give you a better feel for the area and the property itself. Remember, finding a place to live can take time, so it's important to be patient and not rush into a decision," said one expat in Orkney Islands.

"Expats in Orkney Islands, appreciate the warm and welcoming nature of the local people, who are always ready to lend a helping hand. They love the rich history and heritage of the islands, which is evident in the numerous archaeological sites and museums. The local music and arts scene is also highly appreciated, with many events and festivals taking place throughout the year. Expats enjoy the slower pace of life, which allows them to relax and appreciate the stunning natural beauty of the islands. They also value the strong sense of community, where everyone knows each other and looks out for one another. The local food and drink, particularly the seafood and whisky, are also highly praised," explained one person living in Orkney Islands, Scotland.

"Expats in the Orkney Islands may find the local dialect challenging to understand, as it is a unique blend of Scottish and Norse influences. The remote location and isolation of the islands can also be a challenge, with limited access to certain amenities and services that one might be accustomed to in more urban areas. The weather can be harsh and unpredictable, which can be difficult for those not used to such conditions. The pace of life is slower, which can be a significant adjustment for those used to a faster, city lifestyle. Additionally, the local culture is deeply rooted in tradition and history, which might be difficult for outsiders to fully grasp and integrate into," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Orkney Islands.

"If you are planning to stay in the Orkney Islands for an extended period, the type of visa or residency document you need will depend on your nationality, the purpose of your stay, and how long you plan to stay. If you are a citizen of a country outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland, you will generally need a visa to stay in the UK for longer than six months. The type of visa you need will depend on why you are coming to the UK, for example, for work, study, or joining family. If you are a non-EEA or Swiss citizen coming to the UK for work, you may need a Tier 2 (General) visa. You must have a job offer from a licensed sponsor and a valid certificate of sponsorship. You must also show that you are being paid an appropriate salary for your job, can support yourself without public funds, and meet the English language requirement. If you are coming to the UK for study, you may need a Tier 4 (General) student visa. You must have been offered a place on a course, can speak, read, write and understand English, and have enough money to support yourself and pay for your course. If you are joining family in the UK, you may need a family visa. You must be joining a partner or family member who is a British citizen, settled in the UK, has refugee status or humanitarian protection in the UK. If you are a citizen of an EEA country or Switzerland, you generally have the right to live and work in the UK without a visa. However, you may need to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme to continue living in the UK after 30 June 2021. If you are a citizen of a Commonwealth country, you may be eligible for the UK Ancestry visa if one of your grandparents was born in the UK. Please note that this is general advice and the exact requirements may vary. You should check the latest information on the UK government website or consult with an immigration expert," explained one person living in Orkney Islands, Scotland.

"When visiting the Orkney Islands in Scotland, it's important to respect the local customs and traditions. Avoid making jokes about the Orcadian accent or dialect, as it's a source of pride for locals. Don't refer to the mainland of Scotland as "the mainland" - in Orkney, the largest island is referred to as the mainland. Avoid making negative comments about the weather, as locals are used to the changing conditions and may take offense. It's also considered rude to litter, so always dispose of your trash properly. Don't assume that everyone in Orkney is a farmer or fisherman - the islands have a diverse economy with many different professions. Avoid being overly loud or boisterous, as Orcadians tend to be reserved and appreciate quiet and peace. Don't rush or push people to move faster - the pace of life in Orkney is slower than in big cities, and it's important to respect this. Finally, always ask permission before entering private property, including farmland. The islands are a close-knit community and trespassing is taken seriously," said one expat in Orkney Islands.