In an ever-evolving global landscape, the UK continually adapts its immigration policies to address economic needs and workforce shortages.
The Shortage Occupation List (SOL) is a crucial instrument in this process. As we step into 2024, it is essential to explore the UK Shortage Occupation List and understand its implications for businesses, industries and the labour market.
The Shortage Occupation List is a dynamic document that is regularly reviewed and updated by the UK government. It serves as a guide to identify roles that are in short supply domestically, enabling employers to recruit skilled workers to fill these gaps. The list is designed to ensure that the UK remains competitive, fosters economic growth and maintains essential services.
As of 2024, several changes have been implemented to the Shortage Occupation List to address emerging challenges and opportunities. Some of these updates are highlighted below:
Employers sponsoring Skilled Workers are required to pay them at the highest level of the salary threshold established by the UK Government for the respective occupation, which is typically the going rate or, in most instances, the hourly rate of £10.75.
From “late spring” this year, the Home Office has confirmed that employers will no longer have the option to hire immigrant workers at a rate below 20 percent of the prevailing salary for a particular job if the role is listed on the UK’s Shortage Occupation List, which will be renamed the “Immigration Salary List.” Additionally, the government will conduct a review of this list, allowing immigration concessions for occupations facing critical labour shortages in the UK.
Whilst specific details regarding salary threshold discounts for shortage occupations on the revised list are yet to be disclosed, it is expected that they will be below the new Skilled Worker minimum threshold of £38,700. However, these details may not be available for some time. If the updated list comprises numerous shortage occupations with salaries below £38,700, it could alleviate the challenges for employers struggling to find staff for roles paying less than this new minimum salary threshold.
How Gherson can assist
Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.
The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.
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