High Demand Jobs that Qualify For Visa Sponsorship Under UK Shortage Occupation List.

Overview of the UK Immigration Salary List

The UK’s Shortage Occupation List was replaced by the Immigration Salary List (ISL) on April 4, 2024, following recommendations from the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC). The ISL, managed by the Home Office, identifies high-demand occupations eligible for visa sponsorship under the Skilled Worker Visa and Health and Care Worker Visa, offering a reduced salary threshold (80% of the standard going rate) to attract global talent. Unlike its predecessor, the ISL emphasizes competitive salaries to prevent exploitation, aligning with 2025 labor market needs. This guide details top ISL jobs, eligibility, and salary expectations for roles critical to the UK economy.

Why the ISL Matters for Visa Sponsorship

The ISL simplifies hiring for UK employers by lowering the salary threshold for specific roles, making it easier to sponsor overseas workers. Jobs on the ISL require a minimum salary of £30,960 for Skilled Worker Visas or £23,200 for Health and Care Worker Visas, compared to the standard £38,700. Employers must use the correct Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code, verifiable via the CASCOT tool, and issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). The ISL targets sectors like healthcare, technology, and construction, addressing persistent skill shortages.

Eligibility for Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship

To qualify for a Skilled Worker Visa under ISL roles, candidates must meet these criteria:

• Job Offer: Secure a role from a Home Office-approved sponsor with a valid CoS.

• Skill Level: The job must be at Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) Level 3 or above (equivalent to A-levels).

• Salary Threshold: Meet the ISL’s reduced salary (80% of the going rate, minimum £30,960) or the occupation-specific going rate, whichever is higher.

• English Proficiency: Demonstrate B1-level English (reading, writing, speaking, listening) via approved tests like IELTS.

• Financial Requirement: Show funds of at least £1,270 for 28 days to support initial stay.

• TB Test: Provide a clear tuberculosis test result if from a listed country.

Applications are submitted online via the GOV.UK visa portal, with processing typically taking 3–8 weeks.

High-Demand Jobs on the ISL in 2025

The ISL focuses on roles with critical shortages, particularly in healthcare, science, and skilled trades. Below are key occupations, their SOC codes, and application details, based on 2025 labor market data.

Healthcare Professionals

• Roles and SOC Codes: Care workers and home carers (6145), senior care workers (6146), pharmacists (2213).

• Why In Demand: Aging population and post-Brexit labor shortages drive demand for care and medical staff.

• Eligibility: Care roles require a job offer from a licensed healthcare provider; pharmacists need a recognized degree and registration with the General Pharmaceutical Council.

• Application Process: Apply for a Health and Care Worker Visa with a CoS, ensuring the salary meets £23,200 or the going rate (e.g., £29,000 for pharmacists).

Science and Engineering Professionals

• Roles and SOC Codes: Chemical scientists (2111, nuclear industry only), civil engineers (2121), mechanical engineers (2122).

• Why In Demand: Infrastructure projects and energy sector growth fuel need for specialized engineers and scientists.

• Eligibility: Requires a relevant degree or 3+ years of experience; nuclear roles need specific expertise.

• Application Process: Secure a Skilled Worker Visa with a CoS, meeting the £30,960 minimum or occupation-specific rate.

Technology Specialists

• Roles and SOC Codes: Programmers and software development professionals (2134), IT business analysts (2135).

• Why In Demand: Digital transformation and cybersecurity needs create ongoing shortages.

• Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience; roles must align with SOC code duties.

• Application Process: Apply via Skilled Worker Visa, ensuring salary compliance and CoS from a tech employer.

Construction and Trades

• Roles and SOC Codes: Bricklayers and masons (5312), carpenters and joiners (5315).

• Why In Demand: Urban expansion and housing projects face an aging workforce and skill gaps.

• Eligibility: 2+ years of experience or vocational qualifications; job offer from a licensed sponsor.

• Application Process: Submit Skilled Worker Visa application with CoS, meeting the £30,960 threshold.

Creative and Cultural Roles

• Roles and SOC Codes: Dancers and choreographers (3414, ballet/contemporary only), musicians (3415, orchestral only).

• Why In Demand: UK’s cultural sector seeks world-class talent for internationally recognized companies.

• Eligibility: Must meet standards set by UK arts councils (e.g., Arts Council England); ballet dancers need elite training.

• Application Process: Apply for Skilled Worker Visa, ensuring CoS specifies ISL eligibility and salary compliance.

Salary Expectations for ISL Jobs

Salaries for ISL roles are based on a 37.5-hour workweek and must be pro-rated for different hours. Below are 2025 salary ranges for key occupations, sourced from government data.

Healthcare Salary Stats

• Roles: Care workers, pharmacists.

• Annual Salary: £23,200–£45,000 (care workers: £23,200–£28,000; pharmacists: £35,000–£45,000).

• Hourly Rate: £11.85–£23.08.

• Example: A London care worker earns £25,000/year (£12.82/hour).

Engineering Salary Stats

• Roles: Civil engineers, mechanical engineers.

• Annual Salary: £35,000–£55,000.

• Hourly Rate: £17.95–£28.21.

• Example: A Birmingham civil engineer earns £42,000/year (£21.54/hour).

Technology Salary Stats

• Roles: Software developers, IT analysts.

• Annual Salary: £40,000–£65,000.

• Hourly Rate: £20.51–£33.33.

• Example: A Manchester software developer earns £50,000/year (£25.64/hour).

Construction Salary Stats

• Roles: Bricklayers, carpenters.

• Annual Salary: £30,960–£45,000.

• Hourly Rate: £15.88–£23.08.

• Example: A Bristol carpenter earns £38,000/year (£19.49/hour).

Application Tips for Success

• Verify SOC Code: Use the CASCOT tool to match your job to the correct ISL code, avoiding visa refusals.

• Secure a Strong CoS: Ensure your employer’s CoS specifies ISL eligibility and accurate salary details.

• Meet Salary Thresholds: Confirm the offered salary meets both the ISL minimum (£30,960 or £23,200) and the occupation’s going rate.

• Prove English Skills: Take an approved test early (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) to meet B1 requirements.

• Gather Documents: Prepare passport, CoS, qualifications, TB test results, and proof of funds before applying.

• Apply Early: Submit your application 3 months before your intended start date to account for processing.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Incorrect SOC Code: Mismatching job duties to SOC codes leads to visa denials. Verify via CASCOT.

• Salary Shortfalls: Offering below the ISL threshold or going rate invalidates applications.

• Missing CoS Details: Failure to confirm ISL status on the CoS triggers refusals.

• Language Test Delays: Not securing B1 English proof early can stall applications.

• Ineligible Sponsors: Ensure your employer has a valid Home Office sponsor licence.

Post-Visa Steps

• Start Work: Begin your role within 14 days of visa approval or the CoS start date.

• Extend or Switch: Apply to extend your visa (up to 5 years) or switch employers before expiry, meeting updated salary rules.

• Path to Settlement: After 5 years on a Skilled Worker Visa, apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain if eligible.

• Family Inclusion: Bring dependents (spouse, children under 18) by proving funds and accommodation.