UK Expands Skilled Worker Visa to Over 70 Medium-Skilled Roles

The UK is offering new opportunities for international talent. Effective July 22, 2025, the country has introduced a Temporary Shortage Occupation List (TSOL), expanding access to the Skilled Worker visa for over 70 medium-skilled roles. This fast-track route features lower salary thresholds and simplified visa processing for global applicants.

If you’ve dreamed of working in the UK, now is your chance. This initiative targets urgent workforce shortages, ensuring critical sectors remain competitive and robust. It opens doors for those with valuable expertise outside the highly skilled category.

Temporary Shortage List (TSOL)

The Temporary Shortage List (TSOL) acts as a recruitment accelerator. It identifies jobs that UK employers struggle to fill with local talent. If your occupation is on this list and you meet the salary requirements, you can apply for a Skilled Worker visa or switch to this visa category with fewer obstacles. There are also discounted salary thresholds for:

• New entrants
• PhD holders
• Skilled Workers with continuous visa history before April 4, 2024
• This means fewer financial barriers for qualified candidates.

Who Can Apply?

You are eligible to apply if you are:

• An overseas applicant entering the UK on a Skilled Worker visa
• Already in the UK looking to extend your visa
• Switching visa types within the UK
• Working in sectors like STEM, construction, fashion, media, healthcare, or trades
• Ensure your job title matches the official occupation code, which can be checked using the CASCOT occupation coding tool.

Key Occupations

Here’s a quick overview of the most in-demand jobs on the new Temporary Shortage List, grouped by sector:

Engineering, Construction & Technical Roles

• Engineering Technicians
• Pipe Fitters
• Electricians
• Welding Trades
• Plumbers & HVAC Installers
• Construction Supervisors

IT, Tech & Data Jobs

• IT Ops Technicians
• Data Analysts
• Database Administrators
• Computer Installers

Lab, Science & Technical Specialists

• Laboratory Technicians
• Electrical/Electronic Technicians
• Quality Assurance Technicians

Creative, Fashion & Media Roles

• Fashion Designers
• Choreographers
• Authors and Translators
• AV Operators

Business, Finance & Admin Jobs

• Financial Technicians
• Business Support Officers
• Bookkeepers
• HR Officers

How to Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa

Follow these steps to apply for a Skilled Worker visa:

• Confirm Your Occupation Code: Use the CASCOT tool to match your job title to the appropriate code.
• Check the TSOL List: Ensure your job is listed and meets the salary thresholds.
• Ensure Your Employer is Licensed: Only registered UK sponsors can issue Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS).
• Apply for Your Visa: Submit your application through the UK Home Office portal.

You will need:

• A valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
• Proof of qualifications
• Evidence of salary and job offer

Why It’s Smart to Apply Early

This list is termed “temporary” for a reason. The UK is under pressure to fill labor gaps quickly across mid-level sectors. Acting now improves your chances and helps you stay ahead of potential policy changes or list updates.

Final Word

Whether you’re a data analyst from Delhi, a welder from Warsaw, or a dancer from Dubai, the UK is actively hiring. This new Skilled Worker Temporary Shortage List is more than just a policy change; it’s a pathway to your future. With over 70 occupations now eligible, there’s likely an opportunity waiting for you.

Start exploring your options and apply today. Your UK career might be closer than you think!