Government-approved Tier 2 shortage occupation list published

The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) published its proposals for a revised shortage occupation list on 21 October.

MAC recommends skilled occupations which the government should list as an official shortage occupation, so that it is sensible for vacancies to be filled by migrant workers from outside the European Economic Area.

Migrant workers score points if they are applying to work in one of these occupations.

The MAC recommended a revised list of healthcare and engineering professionals and the continued inclusion of chefs, ballet dancers, work riders, veterinary surgeons and secondary teachers in maths and science, and sheep shearers. It also recommended the addition of special needs teachers and skilled meat boners and trimmers and the removal of ship and hovercraft officers.

The Government has accepted MAC’s recommendations for a revised list. The revised list can be found on the UK Border Agency’s website.

The shortage occupation list for the United Kingdom and Scotland will apply to all ‘certificates of sponsorship’ assigned on or after 14 December 2009. Applications based on certificates of sponsorship assigned before this date will be considered against the shortage occupation list in place at the time.

Sponsors should also refer to the Tier 2 codes of practice for detailed information about occupations, appropriate salary rates, and the evidence they need to keep to show that the shortage occupation criteria have been met.

MAC intends to review all entries on this list by Autumn 2010, except for Musicians (3415), which the MAC intend to review by Spring 2010.

The Home Office said this week that less than 500,000 people (two per cent of employees) work in occupations and jobs on the recommended shortage list. This has been reduced from a corresponding figure of 700,000 a year ago.

Border and Immigration Minister Phil Woolas said:

‘The Migration Advisory Committee’s shortage occupation list is a powerful tool in making the points based system work for Britain’s economic benefit.

‘The MAC can respond quickly to changing economic needs, making sure we only get the foreign workers we need.’ 

If you need any immigration advice or help with Studying in the UK, Settlement, Citizenship, Sponsorship, extending Work Permits, Visa or an appeal against a refusal please email:

info@immigrationmatters.co.uk or visit www.immigrationmatters.co.uk