Jan 26, 2023

The shortage occupation list is a list of skilled occupations that the UK job market is unable to fill adequately. If companies are unable to get the skills they need to fulfil a role within their workforce, they may look to sponsor an overseas individual with the relevant skills under the skilled worker route. To encourage companies to access the Universal job market the government has relaxed certain eligibility criteria under the skills shortage route. For example, sponsors may only need to pay 80% of the usual going rate for the listed occupations. Therefore, when sponsoring an individual from overseas as a Skilled Worker check if the job falls on the shortage occupation list first as this may reduce the overall cost of hiring the overseas worker.If the job you are hiring for falls on the list and you have identified an individual from overseas, you will need to assign a certificate of sponsorship to the individual ensuring that you have ticked the box and confirmed the role is on the shortage occupation list If you do not tick the relevant box, the UKVI may delay your application and request further information. The Skills Shortage List frequently changes due to the changing needs of the UK Economy. It is worth reviewing on a regular basis so that you can prepare your recruitment budget accurately. For advice on hiring someone on the Shortage list, timelines and processes please contact our Skilled Worker Sponsorship Team on +44 750 299 2311