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The Shortage Occupation List (SOL) was once a key part of the UK’s Skilled Worker visa system, helping employers hire overseas talent more easily in sectors facing labour shortages.

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However, as of 4 April 2024, the SOL has been replaced by the Immigration Salary List (ISL). Looking ahead, further reforms will introduce a Temporary Shortage List (TSL) in 2026.

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In this guide, we explain:

• What the Shortage Occupation List was.
• Why it was removed.
• How the Immigration Salary List works.
• What the Temporary Shortage List will mean.
• What employers should do when hiring overseas workers.

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What Was the Shortage Occupation List?

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The Shortage Occupation List (SOL) formed part of the UK’s points-based immigration system.

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It identified roles where there were not enough workers in the UK, allowing employers to:

• Sponsor overseas workers at reduced salary thresholds (typically 80% of the going rate).
• Pay lower visa application fees.
• Benefit from a simplified sponsorship process.

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The list was recommended by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) and covered sectors such as:

• Health and social care.
• Engineering.
• IT and digital.
• Education.

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Why Was the SOL Scrapped?

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The SOL was removed in April 2024 after concerns it had become too broad and outdated.

The UK government shifted toward a salary-based system, leading to the introduction of the Immigration Salary List (ISL).

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Immigration Salary List (ISL) vs Shortage Occupation List

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The Immigration Salary List (ISL) differs significantly from the SOL:

• Salary-focused approach
  Roles qualify based on reduced salary thresholds rather than being classified as “shortage” roles.
• No going rate discount
  Unlike the SOL, the ISL does not allow payment below the occupation’s going rate.
• More limited scope
  Fewer roles are included, making sponsorship more restrictive.

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👉 Read more:
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Annaizu workforce management and compliance platform

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Shortage Occupation List Before Closure

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Before being abolished, the SOL included a wide range of roles such as:

• Care workers and senior care workers.
• Nurses, paramedics, and pharmacists.
• Teachers (maths, physics, computer science, languages).
• Engineers (civil, mechanical, electrical).

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These roles benefited from reduced salary thresholds and visa costs, making it easier for employers such as care homes, NHS trusts, and private organisations to recruit internationally.

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What’s Next? The Temporary Shortage List (2026)

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According to the UK government’s immigration reforms, the ISL will be replaced by a Temporary Shortage List (TSL) in December 2026.

The TSL is expected to:

• Target sectors facing urgent labour shortages.
• Apply time-limited measures.
• Work alongside the Skilled Worker visa system.

This approach aims to create a more responsive and flexible system, particularly for industries like:

• Care and social care.
• Construction.
• Seasonal and temporary roles.

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What Employers Should Do in 2025

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If you are hiring overseas workers, it is essential to adapt to the current system:

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1. Check eligibility under the ISL

The Immigration Salary List determines whether reduced salary thresholds apply.

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2. Use the correct SOC code

Assigning the correct occupation code is critical for visa approval and compliance.

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3. Plan for increased costs

Without SOL discounts, employers must budget for:

• Full visa application fees.
• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) costs.
• Compliance requirements.

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4. Stay compliant

The Home Office closely monitors sponsor licence holders. Errors can lead to:

• Visa refusals.
• Sponsor licence suspension or revocation.

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5. Prepare for 2026 changes

The upcoming Temporary Shortage List will introduce further changes. Employers should stay informed and plan ahead.

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FAQs on the UK Shortage Occupation List

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What was the Shortage Occupation List?

A list of roles where the UK faced labour shortages, allowing easier and cheaper sponsorship.

Is the SOL still in use?

No. It was replaced by the Immigration Salary List in April 2024.

What is the Immigration Salary List?

A list of roles eligible for reduced salary thresholds under the Skilled Worker visa.

What will replace the ISL?

The Temporary Shortage List (TSL), expected in 2026.

Does this affect existing visa holders?

No. Changes mainly affect new visa applications and sponsorships.

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How Annaizu Can Help

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At Annaizu, we help UK employers stay compliant with evolving immigration rules and sponsorship requirements.

Our services include:

• Sponsor licence application and management
• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) support
• Ongoing compliance and audit preparation
• Immigration process automation and advisory

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👉 Get in touch with Annaizu today
Annaizu workforce management and compliance platform

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Related Annaizu resources: Explore sponsor licence guidance and case-specific advice and immigration services for practical support with employer compliance and immigration workflows.