London, July 22, 2025 — The United Kingdom has significantly expanded its Skilled Worker visa program to include more than 70 mid-level occupations, allowing professionals such as fashion designers, engineering technicians, data analysts, and laboratory staff to legally work in the country with starting salaries from €29,000.
The update, which took effect July 22, introduces a Temporary Shortage Occupation List (TSOL) designed to ease access to critical roles across sectors like construction, healthcare, science, finance, creative arts, and information technology. The move comes as part of the UK government’s wider strategy to tackle ongoing labor shortages and ensure key industries remain competitive.
Lower Salary Thresholds to Attract Global Talent
In a marked policy shift, the revised TSOL features reduced salary thresholds and streamlined visa procedures, particularly benefiting:
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Engineering technicians: eligible at £34,700, down from £42,500
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Pipe fitters: eligible at £40,400, down from £46,000
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Fashion designers: now qualify at £29,100
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Data analysts: eligible at £28,600
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Lab technicians in science and healthcare: entry set at £25,000, down from £33,400
These new figures reflect tiered eligibility depending on applicants’ visa histories. “New entrants,” PhD holders, and workers with Skilled Worker visas predating April 4, 2024, are eligible for these reduced thresholds.
Maintaining Core Requirements
Despite the relaxed criteria, applicants must still:
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Secure a confirmed job offer from a licensed UK sponsor
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Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
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Provide proof of qualifications, salary, and job matching based on the UK’s official occupation codes
A Strategic Move to Fill Economic Gaps
Government officials say the revised TSOL is a targeted response to growing concerns over gaps in mid-level practical roles, which were previously not prioritized in high-skilled migration categories.
“This update ensures our visa system responds to real economic demands,” a Home Office representative said. “We are equipping UK industries with the talent they urgently need.”
Though the list is described as “temporary,” no formal expiration date has been announced, leaving the door open for long-term policy shifts.
