On Thursday, Britain unveiled a list of 82 mid-skilled jobs that will qualify for temporary work visas under a new migration scheme designed to tackle critical labour shortages. The move comes as Prime Minister Keir Starmer takes a tougher stance on immigration amid growing public concerns over illegal boat crossings and declining poll numbers, with Reform UK gaining momentum.
The list, released by the Migration Advisory Committee, forms part of the Temporary Shortage List — a program granting time-limited access to foreign workers in roles requiring qualifications below degree level. These positions are central to the UK’s industrial strategy and infrastructure projects, many of which face acute workforce gaps.
Key occupations include engineering technicians, welders, photographers, translators, and logistics managers, all considered vital to sustaining economic and infrastructural growth. Successful applicants could receive visas lasting three to five years, although the scheme currently excludes a path to permanent settlement.
Applicants must meet a minimum English language requirement, while employers will need to show clear strategies to train and recruit domestic talent. The committee emphasised that occupations will only remain on the list if employers actively work to “maximise the use of domestic workers” and reduce reliance on migrant labour.
The initiative aligns Britain with Canada and Australia, both of which operate targeted visa programs addressing sector-specific shortages in healthcare, engineering, and skilled trades.
During his recent visit to India, Starmer dismissed prospects of a visa deal with New Delhi, citing stalled bilateral trade negotiations. The second phase of the review, scheduled for July 2026, will refine the list further, shaping the next phase of Britain’s migration and labour policy.
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