Changes to the Shortage Occupation List
As we predicted in June, the government has confirmed that it will add specialist jobs such as vets, architects and web designers to the Tier 2 Shortage Occupation List (SOL). This decision comes after the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) recommended the change earlier this year.
The SOL is a list of occupations recognised as being in national shortage and therefore sensible to fill, in part, through non-EEA migration. To allow employers to access the international talent they need, skilled migrants coming to work in those UK sectors via the Tier 2 scheme receive priority over those positions not listed on the SOL.
Immigration Minister Seema Kennedy said:
‘Giving British based businesses the access to the brightest and best global talent is a key priority for this government.
‘That is why we have made it easier for employers to hire the skilled workers, such as vets and web designers, that this country needs to flourish.’
In the latest statement of changes to the immigration rules, English language testing requirements have also been streamlined to ensure those doctors, dentists, nurses and midwives who have already passed an English language test accepted by the relevant professional body, do not have to sit another test before entry to the UK on a Tier 2 visa or when applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
