Temporary Shortage List for Skilled Worker Applications
In April 2024, the UK government abolished the long-standing Shortage Occupation List (SOL) and replaced it with the Immigration Salary List (ISL). In July 2025, the Skilled Worker visa threshold rose from RQF Level 3 to RQF Level 6 (A-level to degree level). These measures were a shift in policy and dramatically reduced the number of eligible occupations for visa applications in order to prioritise higher-skilled roles.
This shift also created significant challenges for certain sectors dependent on medium-skilled workers, particularly construction, hospitality, and health and social care.
Introduction of the Temporary Shortage List (TSL)
To address this gap, the government introduced the Temporary Shortage List (TSL) on 22 July 2025. The TSL is a table of occupations that are below degree level (i.e., RQF 3-5), which would not normally be eligible under the Skilled Worker route, but which (as the name suggests) have been temporarily recognised as necessary to address labour shortages.
At launch, the TSL included approximately 52 medium-skilled occupations, still a substantial reduction from the roles previously covered under Appendix Skilled Occupations.
However, both the ISL and the interim TSL are scheduled to expire on 31 December 2026. The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) has launched a call for evidence on the interim TSL to assist in determining which occupations will continue to be included and which occupations may be added or removed post 31 December 2026. The call for evidence will close on 02 February 2026. The MAC is expected to publish its findings in a report in July 2026.
Pros and cons
For employers, the Immigration Salary List offers several tangible advantages. Roles listed on the ISL can be sponsored at 80% of the standard salary rate, providing greater flexibility on pay and helping to reduce overall recruitment costs. Employers are no longer required to complete a Resident Labour Market Test before recruiting internationally, which streamlines the hiring process and shortens lead times.
The ISL also enables organisations to address damaging skills shortages in sectors such as construction, healthcare and technology. In addition, certain visa types (notably Health and Care Worker visas) benefit from expedited Home Office processing, allowing employers to bring essential workers to the UK more quickly.
For workers, the new framework offers a pathway into the UK labour market. Occupations listed on the ISL attract lower minimum salary thresholds, making sponsorship more accessible to a wider range of skilled professionals. Some shortage occupations also benefit from reduced visa fees, easing the cost of application and relocation. Top of Form
Key features of the TSL
- Skill level and salary
The TSL covers roles at RQF Levels 3-5 (i.e., typically below degree level). Employers will still have to meet the applicable Skilled Worker salary requirements.
- Time-Limited Access
Occupations on the TSL are eligible for sponsorship for a three-year period, with reviews to determine continuation.
- Stricter governance
Sectors seeking inclusion must submit a comprehensive “Jobs Plan” or workforce strategy to demonstrate that they are trying to maximise the domestic workforce, are investing in training and mitigating against risks.
- Dependant Restrictions
Workers sponsored under TSL roles cannot normally bring dependants to the UK.
What you need to do
It is clearly important to forward plan so that you are prepared for any changes announced in 2026. That includes ensuring your compliance is robust and if you want inclusion, creating a comprehensive “Jobs Plan” strategy.
If you are recruiting, check whether the role meets RQF 6+ (standard Skilled Worker) or is on the TSL (RQF 3–5). If you are already employing workers in roles that might be removed from the TSL, start planning now how you’re going to mitigate the impact.
We will keep you up to date with developments and announcements during the course of 2026. However, if you would like to discuss any of the issues raised in this article, please get in touch.
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