Looking to work in the UK in 2025? The newly updated UK Shortage Occupation List (SOL) presents one of the most efficient and accessible routes for skilled foreign nationals to live and work in the UK.
If your profession appears on this list, you’ll benefit from lower salary thresholds, discounted visa fees, and a streamlined visa sponsorship process — making it easier to get a UK Skilled Worker Visa.
What Is the UK Shortage Occupation List?
The Shortage Occupation List is an official document issued by the UK Home Office that identifies roles where there’s a national shortage of skilled workers. Employers in the UK are allowed to recruit foreign talent more easily to fill these roles.
If your job is listed on the SOL, you can expect:
✅ Reduced salary threshold requirements
✅ Lower visa fees for both you and your dependants
✅ Easier visa sponsorship from UK employers
✅ A fast-track to the UK labour market
🔗 Official source: UK Government SOL & Eligible Occupations
What’s New on the 2025 UK Shortage Occupation List?
The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) has updated the SOL for 2025 to reflect labour shortages caused by Brexit, Covid-19, and ongoing changes in the UK economy.
Key sectors with priority roles now include:
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Healthcare and Social Care
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Engineering and Construction
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IT & Cybersecurity
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Skilled Trades
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Veterinary and Agricultural Science
These updates align with the UK’s push for economic recovery and its commitment to strengthening critical infrastructure and public services.
Top In-Demand Shortage Occupation Roles for 2025
1️⃣ Healthcare & Nursing
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General practitioners (GPs)
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Specialist medical doctors
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Registered nurses and midwives
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Paramedics
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Radiographers
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Senior care workers
The NHS and private care sectors continue to face severe staffing shortages, keeping healthcare roles at the top of the list.
2️⃣ Engineering & Construction
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Civil engineers
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Mechanical engineers
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Electrical engineers
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Structural engineers
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Quantity surveyors
These roles are vital for the UK’s national infrastructure projects and housing development plans.
3️⃣ Tech & Digital Economy
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Software developers
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Cybersecurity analysts
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Data scientists
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IT business analysts
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AI and machine learning engineers
The UK tech sector is booming, but local talent pipelines can’t meet demand.
4️⃣ Skilled Trades
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Welders
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Pipe fitters
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Electricians
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Carpenters
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Roofers
Many construction and manufacturing projects are in urgent need of skilled tradespeople — especially in regions driving green energy growth.
5️⃣ Veterinary & Agricultural Roles
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Veterinarians
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Butchers and meat processors
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Food technologists
Labour shortages in agriculture and food supply chains continue to drive demand for these roles.
Why the Shortage Occupation List Matters for Your Visa Application
If your job is on the Shortage Occupation List and you meet the criteria for a UK Skilled Worker Visa, you gain:
✅ Lower Salary Thresholds
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Standard threshold: £26,200
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Shortage occupation threshold: as low as £20,960
This makes many roles more accessible for foreign workers.
✅ Reduced Visa Fees
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Significant savings on visa application costs
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Discounted fees for your dependants as well
✅ Easier Employer Sponsorship
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UK employers face fewer restrictions when sponsoring workers for shortage roles
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Higher likelihood of job offers from licensed sponsors
🔗 Learn more: UK Skilled Worker Visa Guide
📋 How to Apply for a UK Skilled Worker Visa (Shortage Role)
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to applying if your role is on the SOL:
1. Check the Official Occupation Code
Match your job title and duties to the correct occupational code on the Skilled Worker eligibility list.
2. Secure a Job Offer
You must have a job offer from a UK-licensed sponsor. The employer will issue you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
🔗 Search licensed sponsors here: Register of Licensed Sponsors
3. Meet Language Requirements
Most applicants must prove English proficiency via:
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IELTS or LanguageCert (CEFR B1 or above)
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Exemptions apply if you’re from an English-speaking country
4. Show Financial Readiness
You must have:
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At least £1,270 in savings (unless your employer covers this)
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A valid passport and supporting documents
5. Apply Online
Submit your application through the UK Government’s official visa portal. Include your CoS reference number, proof of qualifications, and biometric data.
Why 2025 Is the Best Year to Move to the UK for Work
The UK is currently in one of its most open periods for skilled immigration due to sectoral labour shortages and strategic national planning.
Whether you’re a healthcare worker, engineer, tech professional, or tradesperson, the UK needs your skills more than ever.
By choosing a role on the Shortage Occupation List, you:
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Improve your visa approval chances
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Benefit from faster processing
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Increase your eligibility for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the long term
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Does working a shortage occupation help me get permanent residency (ILR)?
Yes. Most Skilled Worker Visa holders can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after 5 years, including those in shortage occupations.
Q2: What’s the average visa processing time?
Typically 3 weeks for applications outside the UK, but it may vary by country and workload.
Q3: Can I bring my family with me?
Yes. Your spouse, civil partner, and children under 18 can join you as dependants.
Q4: Do I still need an English test if my job is on the shortage list?
Yes. English language proficiency is still a mandatory requirement unless you qualify for an exemption.
Q5: Where can I view the most current Shortage Occupation List?
Always refer to the official UK government publication:
👉 Current Shortage Occupation List
✅ Final Thoughts: Your Fast-Track to a UK Work Visa Starts Here
The UK Shortage Occupation List 2025 is your opportunity to enter the UK job market on favourable terms. With reduced visa fees, lower salary thresholds, and accelerated processing, it’s the smartest route for skilled professionals looking to live and work in the UK.
Now is the perfect time to:
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Identify your job role on the list
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Find a UK employer willing to sponsor you
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Begin your Skilled Worker Visa application
🚀 Take the next step toward your UK career today — Britain needs your skills.