— Peoples Talk
In a significant policy shift aimed at addressing ongoing labour shortages, the United Kingdom has broadened its Skilled Worker visa programme, creating new opportunities for foreign professionals in over 70 mid-level occupations. This development, which took effect on July 22, 2025, now allows roles such as fashion designers, technicians, and IT specialists to secure employment in the UK with starting salaries from £29,000.
The expansion introduces a Temporary Shortage Occupation List (TSOL) with reduced salary thresholds and a more streamlined visa application process. The new list includes vital sectors such as engineering, construction, healthcare, science, finance, creative industries, and information technology—reflecting the UK government’s commitment to filling critical workforce gaps.
Under the revised policy, salary thresholds differ based on visa applicant categories. Newcomers must still meet standard income requirements, but exceptions now exist for “new entrants,” PhD holders, and those who held a Skilled Worker visa before April 4, 2024. For example:
- Pipe fitters now qualify with salaries from £40,400 (previously £46,000),
- Engineering technicians at £34,700 (down from £42,500),
- Fashion designers at £29,100,
- Data analysts at £28,600,
- Laboratory technicians at £25,000, compared to the former benchmark of £33,400.
The changes aim to attract international talent to roles previously considered below high-skilled visa eligibility, making the UK more competitive globally while tackling domestic workforce deficiencies.
However, all applicants must still fulfil core criteria, including a valid job offer from a licensed UK sponsor, a Certificate of Sponsorship, relevant qualifications, and job alignment with the official UK occupation codes.
Although the UK government describes the TSOL as a temporary fix, no official expiry date has been provided—suggesting it may remain in place until labour market conditions improve.