Scottish accounting adds up for foreigners

Scotland has become a magnet for wannabe accountants from some unlikely locations.

While Glasgow and Edinburgh are accustomed to transient Aussie, Kiwi and South African accountants, recruiters say the respect with which Scottish accounting qualifications are held is also drawing accountants to the country from such places as India, Pakistan, Ghana, Nigeria and China.

Many of the incomers are qualified accountants whose qualifications are not recognised; they arrive in Scotland with a view to passing Scottish accounting exams.

Graham Burns, operations director for technology business at Robert Walters, says the Fresh Talent in Scotland visa makes it easy. It allows foreigners to study in Scotland, then work for two years before they have to apply for the Highly Skilled Migrant visa.

Tristan Dunkley, team leader at the Glasgow office of Poolia, says Indians and other Asian accountants working up the Scottish qualification ladder will help to assuage Scotland's shortage of accountants.

However, while it doesn't take much for overseas accountants to upgrade their qualifications, it can be harder for them to adapt to the UK tax regime and the culture of business areas such as fund accounting.

Recruiters say many foreigners are temps, some occupying relatively senior roles; native Scots are typically more interested in permanent opportunities.