In a bid to address workforce gaps across key sectors, the UK government has officially revised the UK Work Visa Skilled Shortage List 2025, adding a wide range of new professions to meet the country’s growing economic and demographic needs. This updated list offers global job seekers a faster, more accessible route to enter the UK workforce through the Skilled Worker Visa.
From IT specialists to health professionals and skilled tradespeople, the revised list enables both individuals and UK-based employers to streamline the immigration and hiring process, helping the country tackle acute labour shortages more effectively.
What Is the Skilled Shortage Occupation List?
The Skilled Shortage Occupation List is a government-approved document that highlights professions for which there is a lack of qualified workers within the UK. If a job is listed here, international applicants can apply for a Skilled Worker Visa with:
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A lower salary threshold (as low as £20,960 annually)
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Reduced visa fees and employer sponsorship costs
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Faster visa approvals compared to non-listed roles
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A simplified path to permanent residency (ILR) after 5 years
The UK Work Visa Skilled Shortage List 2025 is published by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) and is frequently reviewed to reflect real-time labour market trends.
New Job Roles Added in 2025
The 2025 update is one of the most significant in recent years, expanding beyond traditional sectors to include digital, education, and skilled trades. Here’s a breakdown of new roles that now qualify for easier UK migration.
| Sector | Newly Added Roles in 2025 |
|---|---|
| Healthcare | Clinical radiologists, Paramedics, Dental nurses |
| IT & Digital | Cybersecurity analysts, Cloud engineers, Data architects |
| Skilled Trades | Electricians, Bricklayers, Carpenters, Plumbers |
| Engineering | Structural engineers, Marine engineers |
| Education | Maths teachers, Physics teachers, Computer science lecturers |
These additions reflect the UK’s need to bolster critical infrastructure and improve access to public services amid rising demand post-pandemic and post-Brexit.
Sectors With Ongoing Demand
Even before the 2025 update, several professions have remained consistently on the Skilled Shortage List due to continuous demand.
Key roles still in demand include:
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Registered nurses and midwives
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Care workers and home carers
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Software developers, programmers, and web designers
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Veterinarians and animal care technicians
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Civil engineers, quantity surveyors, and construction managers
Applicants from these fields continue to benefit from relaxed visa policies and long-term work rights in the UK.
Benefits of Being on the Shortage List
Professionals applying under the UK Work Visa Skilled Shortage List 2025 enjoy substantial advantages that make immigration faster, cheaper, and more practical.
Main benefits include:
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A reduced salary threshold (up to 20% lower than standard visa rules)
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Lower visa application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
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Quicker visa processing times due to priority listing
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Direct eligibility to bring dependents and apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after 5 years
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Exemption from Labour Market Test, which simplifies employer sponsorship
This route is especially helpful for mid-level professionals and those early in their careers.
How to Apply for a Job on the Skilled Shortage List
To apply for a Skilled Worker Visa under this list, follow these essential steps:
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Find a job listed under the shortage occupation codes.
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Get a job offer from a UK-based employer licensed to sponsor overseas workers.
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Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from the employer.
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Meet English language requirements (usually IELTS or equivalent).
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Provide proof of funds, salary, and other supporting documents.
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Submit your application online and book a biometric appointment.
You can track your application through the UKVI portal once submitted.
Changes in Salary Thresholds and Visa Fees
The updated UK Work Visa Skilled Shortage List 2025 also introduces flexibility in the salary requirements. For most listed jobs, the minimum salary requirement is now:
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£20,960 per year or £10.75/hour (lower threshold)
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£26,200 for standard roles outside the shortage list
Additionally, visa fees for shortage occupation roles are around £479–£943, which is significantly lower than standard fees that may exceed £1,200.
Employers also pay less under the Immigration Skills Charge, making it more attractive to hire from overseas.
Final Thoughts
The UK Work Visa Skilled Shortage List 2025 offers a unique window of opportunity for skilled professionals around the world. With expanded job roles, streamlined requirements, and strong government backing, the UK remains an attractive destination for talent in 2025. Whether you’re a nurse, coder, engineer, or tradesperson, this is the perfect time to explore your migration and career growth options.
FAQs
What is the UK Work Visa Skilled Shortage List 2025?
It is an official list of job roles facing a shortage of workers in the UK. Jobs on this list allow foreign workers to apply for a Skilled Worker Visa under relaxed rules.
What are the benefits of being on the shortage list?
Applicants get lower salary requirements, reduced visa fees, faster processing, and an easier path to permanent residency.
What jobs were added in 2025?
New additions include cybersecurity analysts, cloud engineers, radiologists, structural engineers, and teachers in STEM subjects.
Can I apply without a job offer?
No. You must first have a job offer from a UK employer licensed to sponsor skilled worker visas before applying.
Where can I find the complete shortage list?
Visit the official UK government website or consult the latest updates on the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) page for the current list.
Click here to know more.