UK Shortage Occupation List: New Additions & Sponsor Licence

By Sanwar Ali

The UK's shortage occupation list plays an essential role in addressing the country's skills shortages by making it easier for companies to recruit skilled workers from overseas through the sponsor licence and Skilled Worker visa scheme. This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the latest additions to the shortage occupation list and proposals for future occupations to be included. It also discusses the benefits of being featured on the list and how the sponsor licence scheme can help employers overcome skills shortages.

Table of Contents

• Overview of the Sponsor Licence Scheme
• Current Additions to the Shortage Occupation List
• Proposals for Future Additions to the Shortage Occupation List
• Benefits of Inclusion on the Shortage Occupation List
• How the Sponsor Licence Scheme Helps Employers with Skills Shortages
• Seafood Sector Support and the UK Seafood Fund
• Challenges and Concerns with the Shortage Occupation List
• Role of the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC)
• The Importance of Compliance in the Sponsor Licence Scheme
• Obtaining a Skilled Worker Visa and Meeting the English Language Requirement
• Conclusion

Overview of the Sponsor Licence Scheme

The sponsor licence scheme enables UK employers to recruit skilled workers from overseas to fill positions in the UK. To hire a skilled worker, an employer must have a sponsor licence and issue a certificate of sponsorship, which the worker can then use to apply for a skilled worker visa.

It is claimed that the immigration system enables employer to bring in skills and talent needed to support the UK economy, and at the same time encouraging long-term investment in the domestic workforce. The government maintains a shortage occupation list, which makes it cheaper to bring in people in certain occupations from abroad.

Current Additions to the Shortage Occupation List

Five construction-related roles were recently added to the shortage occupation list following recommendations from the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC). These roles include:

1. Bricklayers and masons
2. Carpenters and joiners
3. Roofers, roof tilers, and slaters
4. Plasterers and dry liners
5. General construction and building trades (e.g., fencers, steeplejacks, and builders)

Additionally, several roles in the seafood sector, such as share fishermen, trawler skippers, and experienced deckhands on large fishing vessels, have been added to the list. These roles will benefit from lower fees and salary requirements, ensuring the sector can continue to access much-needed talent.

Proposals for Future Additions to the Shortage Occupation List

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) is advocating for the inclusion of 13 more occupations on the shortage occupation list, including steel erectors, sheet metal workers, and road construction operatives. The CLC argues that these roles are essential for delivering key infrastructure projects and providing growth stimulus for other industries.

In total, the CLC has proposed the following occupations for inclusion:

1. Architectural and town planning technicians
2. Bricklayers and masons
3. Business and related associate professionals
4. Carpenters and joiners
5. Construction and building trades
6. Elementary construction occupations (e.g., general labourers and ground workers)
7. Mobile machine drivers and operatives (e.g., plant operatives and piling rig operatives)
8. Plasterers, dry liners, and ceiling fixers
9. Road construction operatives
10. Roofers, roof tilers, and slaters
11. Sheet metal workers
12. Steel erectors
13. Welding trades

The final review from the MAC is expected to be published in August, which will determine whether these additional roles will be added to the list.

Benefits of Inclusion on the Shortage Occupation List

Roles included on the shortage occupation list enjoy various benefits as they qualify for a 20% lower salary threshold (£20,960 instead of £26,200) and pay reduced fees for a three-year visa (£479 instead of £625). The broader English language requirements of the Skilled Worker route also apply to roles on the list.

Being featured on the shortage occupation list makes it cheaper for employers to recruit overseas talent to fill vital positions, helping to address skills shortages and support the UK economy.

How the Sponsor Licence Scheme Helps Employers with Skills Shortages

The sponsor licence scheme is designed to help employers overcome skills shortages by allowing them to recruit skilled workers from overseas. By offering sponsorship to foreign workers, employers can fill positions that are in high demand and contribute to the growth and success of the UK economy.

To be eligible for a sponsor licence, employers must demonstrate a genuine need for the skilled worker. While not strictly necessary, it may also be an idea to advertise the vacancy. Once a sponsor licence is granted, employers can issue certificates of sponsorship to eligible workers, who can then apply for a skilled worker visa.

Seafood Sector Support and the UK Seafood Fund

In addition to the inclusion of seafood sector roles on the shortage occupation list, the government has introduced a £100 million UK Seafood Fund to support the industry. The fund aims to modernize facilities, train and upskill fishermen, and invest in scientific research on key fish stocks.

This support is expected to boost the seafood sector, which is a vital part of the UK's heritage and economy, contributing significantly to food security and creating jobs in coastal communities.

Challenges and Concerns with the Shortage Occupation List

One of the challenges faced by potential candidates for roles on the shortage occupation list is the English language requirement. The CLC has noted that the language requirement has proven to be a "significant and widespread blocker" for many candidates and has offered to work with the government to improve the process.

Critics have also raised concerns about the proposed removal of the salary discount benefit for shortage occupations with a going rate above the general salary threshold. The CLC argues that a salary discount is appropriate for all occupations in shortage, regardless of the going rate, as the risk of undercutting UK workers is low.

Role of the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC)

The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) is an independent, evidence-based body that advises the government on migration policy, including the shortage occupation list. The MAC conducts regular reviews of the list and makes recommendations based on their findings. Usually, the Government accepts MAC recommendations.

The Importance of Compliance in the Sponsor Licence Scheme

Compliance is vital for employers participating in the sponsor licence scheme. Employers must demonstrate that they have made genuine efforts to recruit from the resident workforce and that they have a legitimate need for a skilled worker. They must also comply with their sponsor licence obligations and adhere to the rules and regulations of the scheme.

Failure to comply with these requirements can result in the revocation of a sponsor licence, fines, and other penalties. Employers must ensure they are familiar with their responsibilities under the scheme.

Obtaining a Skilled Worker Visa and Meeting the English Language Requirement

To obtain a skilled worker visa, applicants must have a valid certificate of sponsorship from a licensed employer and meet the English language requirement. The language requirement varies depending on the occupation and can be a hurdle for some candidates. However, the government is working to address this issue and make the process more accessible for skilled workers.

Conclusion

The shortage occupation list and the sponsor licence scheme play a crucial role in addressing skills shortages in the UK and supporting economic growth. With the latest additions to the list and proposals for future occupations, the government is taking some steps to ensure the UK has the talent it needs to thrive. Employers must be aware of their responsibilities under the scheme and comply with their obligations to maintain the integrity of the system.

How Workpermit.com Can Help with Sponsor Licences

If you need help with employing Skilled Workers and help to apply for a Sponsor Licence, including complying with your Sponsor Licence obligations, Workpermit.com can help.

For more information and advice, please contact us on 0344 991 9222 or at london@workpermit.com(link sends e-mail)