UK Opens Temporary Visa Route for Foreign Workers — 82 Jobs Eligible Under New Shortage List

The United Kingdom government has announced a new opportunity for foreign workers, unveiling 82 mid-skilled job roles now eligible under a temporary visa pathway aimed at easing labour shortages and boosting the national economy.

According to a Home Office report, the initiative targets key sectors facing manpower gaps, balancing the need to strengthen the UK economy while managing migration and supporting sustainable growth.

The 82 occupations were identified by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) and added to the Temporary Shortage List (TSL)—a new category introduced as part of an ongoing two-stage review.

Foreign applicants must demonstrate B1-level English proficiency to qualify. The visa permits three to five years of work in the UK but does not lead to permanent residency.

“The Temporary Shortage List is designed to attract skilled workers for critical roles, ensuring targeted migration that supports UK industries,” the Home Office stated.

MAC also recommended that visa holders should be allowed to transition to higher-skilled roles (RQF 6+) through the Skilled Worker route, encouraging career development and long-term professional growth.

Key Jobs on the Temporary Shortage List (TSL)

The first phase of the list includes occupations across diverse industries, such as:

• Managers and Directors: Logistics, hire services, and consultancy
• Technicians: Laboratory, electrical, electronics, civil engineering, quality assurance, and production
• Design and Creative Roles: CAD, architecture, interior, fashion, and other design jobs
• IT and Tech: IT operations, support, and database administration
• Healthcare and Arts: Medical and dental technicians, artists, authors, translators, actors, dancers, and musicians
• Engineering and Skilled Trades: Welders, pipe fitters, metalworkers, electricians, plumbers, carpenters, plasterers, painters, and roofers
• Finance and Legal: Insurance underwriters, legal professionals, credit controllers, and financial technicians
• Corporate and Admin Roles: Project support officers, business analysts, HR officers, and IT trainers
• Other Key Sectors: Ship and hovercraft officers, energy, chemical, water, and sewerage technicians, as well as routine inspectors and testers

A second phase of the review will begin in July 2026 to determine which additional roles will make it to the final list.

Visa Duration, Fees, and Requirements

The Temporary Shortage List visa allows foreign professionals to work in the UK for three to five years, though holders are not eligible for welfare benefits.

Applicants will pay standard fees under the Skilled Worker route, including the visa application fee, Immigration Health Surcharge, and Immigration Skills Charge. However, the government has hinted that TSL fees may be lower to reduce dependence on the broader visa system.

The Home Secretary is expected to review salary thresholds for TSL occupations in December 2025.

Applicants wishing to later switch to the Skilled Worker visa must meet a B2-level English requirement.

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