The UK immigration system underwent significant reforms in mid-2025—one of the most impactful changes being the introduction of the Temporary Shortage List (TSL) for Skilled Worker visas. Here’s everything businesses and skilled migrants need to know about this interim pathway open until the end of 2026.
What Is the Temporary Shortage List?
In July 2025, the UK replaced the Immigration Salary List with the Temporary Shortage List, an interim measure preserving sponsorship eligibility for specific medium-skilled roles (RQF Levels 3–5) considered critical to the UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy.
Why It Matters — And Why It’s Time-Limited
Since raising the skill requirement to RQF 6 (degree level), many non-graduate roles have become ineligible for sponsorship. The TSL offers a temporary exception until 31 December 2026, helping employers manage the transition. After that, only roles recommended by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) will remain eligible.
What Occupations Are on the List?
Roles eligible for sponsorship under the TSL include (but are not limited to):
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IT support technicians and database/admin staff
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Human resources officers and credit controllers
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Laboratory, engineering, and building technicians
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Designers like writers, photographers, dancers, fashion professionals
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Welding trades, plumbers, electricians, vehicle technicians, repairers
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Construction supervisors and steel erectors
Key Conditions for Employers and Workers
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No dependent visas
Employees sponsored under TSL roles cannot bring dependants (e.g., partners or children) to the UK. Only roles at RQF 6+ or those already sponsored before July 2025 allow it.
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No salary discounts
Despite being on the TSL, these roles do not qualify for reduced salary thresholds. Employers must still meet the general or going-rate salary requirements.
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Transitional protections for existing workers
Those already holding a Skilled Worker visa under a medium-skilled role before 22 July 2025 may continue sponsorship—even if that occupation is removed—through transitional arrangements.
The Road Ahead: What Employers & Workers Should Do
| Action | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Review job codes now | If a role is on the TSL, there’s still a window to sponsor — only until end-2026. |
| Plan for 2027 | Post-TSL, only MAC-endorsed roles remain eligible—plan workforce strategies accordingly. |
| Budget carefully | Higher skill and salary thresholds plus no family access increase the cost of hiring overseas workers. |
| Consider settlement paths | It’s unclear whether TSL holders will still qualify for ILR under the traditional 5-year route. Settlements rules may change. |
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In Summary
The Temporary Shortage List is a short-term lifeline allowing certain non-graduate roles to be sponsored until 31 December 2026. It offers valuable breathing room—but comes with clear restrictions, particularly on dependants and salary flexibility. Employers and workers alike must act fast to make the most of this window.
If your business needs to sponsor talent under the TSL or you’re a worker looking to understand your visa options, Sahin Legal Consultancy is ready to guide you through every step—from assessing eligibility to ensuring compliance and planning long-term strategies.
