Applying for social housing
Who can apply for social housing
You can apply for social housing anywhere in Scotland if you’re 16 or over.
If you’re not from the UK or Ireland, check how your immigration status affects your housing options. You might have to meet certain immigration conditions to get a home from the council, but you can still apply to housing associations.
How long you’ll wait
Waiting times depend on:
how many homes are available in your area
how many other people are on the waiting list
your priority level, based on your circumstances and needs
Increase your chances of getting a home
You could get a home more quickly if you:
apply to all the social housing providers in your area
apply in any other areas you’d consider moving to
be flexible about the types of homes you'd consider
give full details about all the reasons you need a home
Always update your application if your circumstances change.
Last updated: 19 January 2023
Housing laws differ between Scotland and England.
This content applies to Scotland only.