Scotland’s population is expected to grow to 5.8 million over the next two decades – all of it coming from immigration.

The projection to the middle of 2047 shows that, without migration, Scotland’s population would fall as deaths are projected to continue to outnumber births.

The data from the National Records of Scotland have prompted a renewed call for the Scottish government to have a greater input into managing immigration.

First Minister John Swinney wants a Student visa scheme to enable those who study in Scotland to remain in the country, while there have also been calls for a rural visa to help fill jobs, such as those being created in the renewables sector.

Scotland’s Migration Service helps individuals and businesses navigate the immigration system, while the Addressing Depopulation Action Plan is supporting local action to help communities facing population decline.

There has been some criticism on social media that the campaign features only young, white women. Questions have also been raised about the lack of investment in public services and housing to support a growing population.

New forecasts from the Office for National Statistics show the UK population will reach 72.5m by mid-2032, up nearly five million from 67.6m in mid-2022.

The level of net migration is projected to average 340,000 per year from mid-2028 onwards, lower than current levels.

The data also suggests that 1 in 10 of the UK population will be 75 and over by 2032.

Commenting of the Scottish figures, Equalities Minister Kaukab Stewart said: “These projections suggest that Scotland will continue to be an attractive country for people to live, work, study and settle in.

“We welcome people from around the world and other parts of the UK who want to build their lives here.

“While our population is projected to continue aging, all projected growth will come from inward migration.

“This shows just how crucial migrants are to ensuring Scotland has a greater proportion of people of working age to fill skills gaps, sustain public services, contribute to communities, and grow the economy.

“To enable us to address our demographic challenges, migration policies must be tailored to Scotland’s distinct needs.

“We will continue to press the UK Government on introducing a Scottish Graduate visa to help us retain capable people from around the world, and to work with us on a Rural Visa Pilot tailored to the needs of our rural and island communities.

“Within our devolved powers, we are supporting communities to retain and attract people as far as possible.”