The UK government has just released a new Temporary Shortage List (TSL) which outlines certain jobs that the UK urgently needs workers for. This is great news for Nigerians living in the UK — or planning to come — who may have skills that match these roles.
🏗️ What is the Temporary Shortage List?
The TSL highlights occupations (at RQF levels 3 to 5) that the UK government believes are critical for the economy. Jobs on this list may have slightly more flexible visa conditions because they help fill skills gaps. However, this list will be reviewed later this year by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC).
✅ Some Jobs on the Temporary Shortage List
If you work in or plan to work in any of these fields, you might have a better chance at sponsorship or work visa opportunities:
- Managers in logistics
- Directors in consultancy services
- Laboratory, electrical & engineering technicians
- IT operations & support technicians
- Authors, writers & translators
- Photographers & designers (fashion, industrial, packaging, set, visual merchandising)
- Ship officers, legal associate professionals, insurance underwriters
- Data analysts, business sales executives
- HR officers, IT trainers, advertising & marketing professionals
- Welders, plumbers, electricians, vehicle technicians, security system installers
- Construction supervisors, painters, decorators, energy plant operatives
👉 See the full list on the official government website or check with your employer or immigration adviser to confirm if your job is included.
🚫 Jobs Removed from the Skilled Worker Visa Route
Heads up! From 22nd July 2025, 180 jobs will no longer be eligible for the Skilled Worker Visa route. This includes roles like:
- Restaurant & hotel managers
- Hairdressing & beauty salon managers
- Travel agency managers
- Early education & childcare practitioners
- Many creative jobs like actors, artists, interior designers
- Fitness & wellbeing instructors
- Some agriculture & horticulture roles
This means that if your job is not on the new TSL and has been removed from the Skilled Worker Visa route, you may need to look for other visa options or switch to a job that is still eligible.
✈️ What This Means for Nigerians in the UK
✅ If you’re a Nigerian professional working in any of these shortage occupations, you may find it easier to get sponsorship or extend your visa.
⚠️ But if your job has been removed, speak to your employer or an immigration advisor ASAP to explore your options.
📌 Always check the Home Office website and trusted immigration advisers for the latest information.
Stay informed. Stay prepared.
For more updates on UK jobs, visas, and tips for Nigerians living in the UK, follow Naija UK Connect!
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