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UK Skill Shortage Work Visas Jobs in 2025-2026 for International Applicants
In this article I will explain you about the UK skill shortage work visas jobs and especially those jobs where there is a shortage of skills, i.e. UK jobs with shortages.
What is a Skilled Worker Visa in the UK?
Work visa in the UK: There is a special visa to work in the UK called the Skilled Worker visa. This visa is given to those who have been offered a job by a company or employer in the UK.
Previous
System: Shortage Occupation List (SOL)
Earlier, the UK had a list called the Shortage Occupation List (SOL). This list
included those jobs where there was a shortage of people working in the UK. If
you got a job included in this list, some of the visa conditions (especially
the salary limit) were relaxed.
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Introduction of the Immigration Salary List (ISL) in 2024
In April 2024, the SOL was abolished and replaced by a new list, the Immigration Salary List (ISL). This new list also identifies jobs where a Skilled Worker visa can be applied for at a slightly lower salary.
UK Skilled Worker Visa Requirements and Eligibility 2025-26
You must be offered a job by a UK company that has been approved by the
government (Home Office).
When you are offered a job, the company will give you a special paper or number
called a "Certificate of Sponsorship" (CoS). This is essential for
your visa application.
Eligible Jobs for a UK Skilled Worker Visa
Your job must be on the list of "Eligible Occupations" issued by the government. This is a huge list that includes over 200 types of jobs. Jobs that were previously on the Shortage List are now on the ISL. For these, there may be some relaxation in the salary requirement.
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Skill and Qualification Levels Required
Your job skill must be at least RQF Level 3 (roughly equivalent to a college education). According to some reports, this requirement could be raised to RQF Level 6 (equivalent to a bachelor's degree) in 2025.
Salary Criteria for the UK Work Visa
Typically, your annual salary must be at least £38,700, or the salary that is usually paid for that particular job in the UK, whichever is higher. If your job is on the ISL, you may be able to get a visa for a salary that is 20% lower than the normal limit, but you must still meet the normal salary limit for your job. If you are young (under 26), have recently graduated, or are in training, you may be able to get a visa on a slightly lower salary (at least £30,960 per year).
English Language Requirements for UK Visa
You must be able to speak, read, write and understand English. You will usually need to pass a specific English test (CEFR B1 level). If you are from an English-speaking country, or you studied in the UK in English, you will not need to take this test.
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Financial
and Document Requirements
You will need to prove that you can support yourself and your family while you
are in the UK, or that your employer (company) will provide you with financial
support. Your original passport. If necessary, you must have no criminal record. People from some countries also need to show the result of a TB (Tuberculosis)
test.
UK
In-Demand Skill Shortage Jobs for 2025-26
Here are some jobs where the UK is in general need of people:
Health and care:
Doctors, nurses, other medical professionals, senior care workers, social
workers.
Engineering:
Civil engineers, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and other engineers.
Computers and technology (IT):
Software developers, IT business analysts, systems designers, cybersecurity
specialists.
Construction and skilled trades:
Architects, bricklayers, roofers, carpenters, specialized welders.
Education:
High school teachers (especially maths, physics, computers, and foreign
languages).
Other professions:
Archaeologists, chefs, artists, musicians.
Step-by-Step UK Visa Application Process
Find a job: First you need to find a job in the UK with a company that is
approved for a Skilled Worker visa.
Apply online: You need to apply online by visiting the UK government website.
Submit documents: You will need to provide proof of your identity and other
necessary documents (such as a passport).
Pay the fee: You will need to pay a visa application fee and an Immigration
Health Surcharge (IHS).
UK Work Visa Processing Times
If you are applying from outside the UK, it takes around 3 weeks. If you are applying from within the UK, it takes around 8 weeks. You can also get a faster decision by paying an additional fee.
Bringing Family Members to the UK
You can bring your spouse (wife/husband/partner) and children under 18 with you to the UK. They will also need to apply separately and pay a fee.
Final
Tips and Important Reminders
UK immigration laws are constantly changing, so always check the official UK GOV.UK website for the latest information. If you need further help, it is best
to speak to a specialist immigration consultant.