For many years, the UK Shortage Occupation List played an important part in the immigration system. It identified jobs where the UK did not have enough workers, which made it easier for employers to hire skilled people from overseas. For applicants, being in a listed occupation often meant an easier and more flexible visa process.
The rules have now changed. Although the idea of identifying shortage roles still exists, the original list has been replaced by newer systems. Understanding what the list was, how it worked and what has replaced it is important for anyone applying for a work visa or sponsoring an overseas employee.
This article explains what the Shortage Occupation List used to be, how it helped workers and employers, what the new system looks like and what applicants need to consider today.
What the UK Shortage Occupation List used to be
The Shortage Occupation List was designed to help UK employers fill roles that were difficult to recruit for locally. The independent Migration Advisory Committee regularly reviewed the labour market and recommended which occupations should be included.
When a job was placed on the list, it showed that the UK did not have enough qualified workers available in that area. These jobs often required specialist training, advanced qualifications or skills that were in high demand.
Roles on the Shortage Occupation List benefited from several advantages, such as:
- Lower minimum salary requirements
- More flexibility within the Skilled Worker Visa rules
- A simpler and faster sponsorship process for employers
As a result, many employers relied on the list to recruit nurses, engineers, software professionals, scientists, social care workers and other highly skilled individuals.
How the rules have changed
In 2024, major reforms were introduced to the Skilled Worker Visa system. One of the most important changes was the replacement of the Shortage Occupation List with a new framework known as the Immigration Salary List. This new list works in a similar way but includes fewer occupations and applies different criteria.
Salary reductions still apply to some jobs on the Immigration Salary List, but they are more limited than before. In addition, the government introduced a Temporary Shortage Occupation List to cover certain roles where short term demand remains high. This temporary list is expected to stay in place until 2026.
Because of these changes, older versions of the Shortage Occupation List are now outdated. Employers and applicants must always refer to the most recent list when preparing a Certificate of Sponsorship or a Skilled Worker Visa application.
Why it matters for employers and visa applicants
If a job appears on the Immigration Salary List or the temporary shortage list, it may become easier for employers to sponsor an applicant. In some cases, a lower salary may be acceptable, which can help employers meet the sponsorship criteria. These rules can also affect long term settlement planning for workers who hope to stay in the UK permanently.
If a role does not appear on any shortage list, the employer must meet the full salary and skill requirements of the Skilled Worker Visa. There are no exceptions. This can affect whether a job offer meets the necessary threshold for sponsorship.
Because of this, it is important for both employers and applicants to understand which jobs qualify and how the updated lists apply.
Related: What Is the UK Skilled Worker Visa Salary Threshold?
How to check if your job is on the current list
The first step is to identify the correct occupation code for the role, known as the SOC code. Every job that can be sponsored under the Skilled Worker Visa has a specific SOC code which determines the salary level and skill requirement. Once you know the correct code, you can check the most recent Immigration Salary List or the temporary shortage list to see if the role appears there.
It is important to check the list that is active at the time your employer assigns your Certificate of Sponsorship. The lists are reviewed and updated from time to time, which means that a job that qualified previously may not qualify today. Relying on outdated information can lead to delays or even refusals.
If you are unsure about the correct SOC code or if your job sits on the border between two categories, it is sensible to seek legal advice. Using the wrong code is one of the most common reasons for Skilled Worker Visa problems.
What to do if your job is not on the shortage list
If your occupation does not appear on any shortage list, it does not mean that you cannot obtain a Skilled Worker Visa. It simply means that the full set of rules will apply. This usually includes:
- Meeting the standard salary threshold
- Meeting the required skill level
- Showing that the job is genuine and meets Home Office criteria
Most Skilled Worker Visa applications are made this way. Being on a shortage list simply made the process more flexible for some roles, but it is not essential for sponsorship.
If your job is not on the list, your employer should ensure that the salary meets the correct level and that the role fits the criteria for sponsorship. A solicitor can review this before any application is submitted.
Why the new system matters
The replacement of the Shortage Occupation List with newer versions is part of a wider shift in the UK immigration system. The government is placing more emphasis on salary levels, skill standards and long term economic priorities. This means that employers and workers need to stay up to date with the rules and avoid using information that is no longer valid.
For applicants, understanding the list can influence your job choices, career planning and long term settlement plans. For employers, it affects recruitment strategies and sponsor licence compliance.
Staying informed helps prevent mistakes and ensures that applications are prepared correctly the first time.
Find out more from our immigration team
Please note that this article is solely for informational purposes. It’s not a substitute for legal advice. We encourage readers to contact Osbourne Pinner for case-specific guidance.
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