Understanding the U.K.’s Stage 1 Review of the Temporary Shortage Occupation List

In October 2025, the U.K. Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) published its Stage 1 report on the Temporary Shortage List (TSL), a new immigration route designed to support mid-skilled roles (RQF Levels 3–5) that are considered essential to the U.K.’s Industrial Strategy or critical infrastructure. The TSL replaces the Immigration Salary List (ISL) and reflects the government’s broader goals of reducing net migration while strengthening domestic workforce development. 

Antonio Lam, Director of U.K. Immigration at Envoy Global, breaks down key aspects of the report and what this means for employers navigating the U.K.’s evolving work visa landscape. 

TSL Redesign: Stage 1  

This first phase of the review focuses on two key areas: 

• Designing the TSL visa; and  
• Identifying which occupations should move forward for deeper evaluation. 

The MAC recommends that occupations be placed on the TSL for a default period of three years, with shorter durations (e.g., 18 months) possible if sector workforce plans, referred to as “Jobs Plans”, are still in development but show potential. 

Visa Design Highlights 

The Stage 1 report recommends how to structure the TSL visa, outlining key priorities such as:

• Visa duration: Three to five years, with no renewals beyond five years if the route does not lead to settlement. Occupations should remain on the TSL for three years, with shorter durations possible where workforce plans are underdeveloped.
• Dependents: TSL visa holders will not be permitted to bring dependents.
• English language: Minimum requirement set at the B1 level.
• Sponsorship: Greater flexibility in sponsorship models, particularly for sectors with high levels of self-employment or small employers.
• Salary thresholds: No discounts—TSL salary levels should match or exceed those of the Skilled Worker route.
• Settlement: No formal recommendation, though the MAC outlines pros and cons for government consideration.

TSL Redesign: Stage 2 

Stage 2 of the Temporary Shortage List review will run through July 2026 and include a formal Call for Evidence (CfE) from stakeholders. 

To determine which occupations should proceed, the MAC applied a two-pronged approach: 

• Quantitative analysis: Flagged occupations in which over 50% of workers were employed in prioritized sectors.
• Government engagement: Sector experts submitted evidence to support additional roles. 

As a result, 82 occupations have been identified for further review. These span engineering, IT, construction, creative industries, and more, including bricklayers, welders, IT support technicians and laboratory technicians. 

Stage 2 will assess: 

• Whether migration is a viable solution to workforce shortages. 
• Whether sectors have credible Jobs Plans to invest in domestic talent and reduce reliance on migration. 
• How sectors intend to manage risks related to worker exploitation. 

This next phase will be critical in shaping how migration policy supports, rather than substitutes, the U.K. workforce in key sectors. 

Sector Focus 

The U.K.’s Industrial Strategy closely links the TSL to eight “growth-driving” sectors—such as Advanced Manufacturing, Clean Energy and Life Sciences—as well as foundational industries and construction roles tied to infrastructure development.

The MAC emphasizes that U.K. nationals dominate the workforce in these sectors and designed the TSL to support a small, targeted segment of the labor market.

Why It Matters 

For employers navigating U.K. immigration policy, the TSL introduces a more strategic and temporary route for accessing talent in mid-skilled roles. According to the government, it also signals a shift toward greater alignment between immigration and domestic workforce planning.  

Rethinking the Temporary Shortage List 

Antonio Lam shared the following reflections on the U.K. Migration Advisory Committee’s October 2025 Stage 1 Review:

The Stage 1 Review of the Temporary Shortage List marks a major shift in U.K. immigration policy, following the July 2025 White Paper overhaul. 

Whilst time-limited visas for shortage occupations offer a targeted mechanism to support the Government’s migration control objectives, the exclusion of dependents and the lack of settlement pathways may significantly reduce the appeal of this route for global talent. 

Looking ahead, employers demonstrate real commitment to developing domestic skills and investing in local talent if they wish to maintain access to overseas talent. Stage 2 will effectively define how migration can support, not substitute, the U.K. workforce, particularly in sectors historically dependent on international expertise. 

This framework offers strong potential, but its success depends on coordinated action between employers and the government. Workforce needs, not political optics, must drive policy change.

About Envoy Global   

Navigating U.K. immigration can be complex, especially with shifting policies and limited clarity. Employers need more than updates; they need trusted guidance.  

At Envoy Global, we combine smart, friendly legal teams with smart, friendly technology to facilitate immigration for companies and the global talent they depend on. Our holistic, proactive immigration services are built for accuracy and efficiency, always putting people first.   

Reach out today to learn how we can support your company’s immigration needs and help you stay ahead in a rapidly evolving environment.

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