Introduction to the Temporary Shortage List
The Government’s Temporary Shortage List (TSL) is taking shape following the publication of the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) Stage One report. Introduced into the Immigration Rules in July 2025, the TSL replaces the previous Immigration Salary List. Moreover, it creates a route for skilled workers to fill jobs at Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) levels 3 to 5 where genuine labour shortages exist.
Purpose of the MAC Stage One Report
The MAC report sets out recommendations on how the list should operate and identifies which occupations should progress for further review. In fact, they chose these roles for their strategic importance to the Government’s Industrial Strategy and their contribution to critical UK infrastructure.
Temporary Shortage List Stage 2
Professor Brian Bell, Chair of the MAC, confirmed that 82 occupations have been shortlisted for Stage Two. Now, these will undergo further assessment before final recommendations are published in July 2026. Inevitably, the review will evaluate whether these roles face genuine shortages and whether employers have credible Jobs Plans. As such, these plans must outline strategies to improve skills, boost domestic recruitment in collaboration with the Department for Work and Pensions and safeguard workers from exploitation.
Shortlisting Key Occupations
To reach the shortlist, the MAC reviewed 151 occupations at RQF levels 3 to 5. They considered each role’s importance across priority sectors including clean energy, advanced manufacturing, digital technology, life sciences, defence, financial services, creative industries and national infrastructure. Occupations were deemed critical if at least half the workforce was employed in these sectors or if sector experts confirmed their strategic importance. The final list includes roles ranging from actors to welders.
Design and Duration of the TSL
The MAC recommends that occupations remain on the list for three years to allow sectors to address temporary shortages and develop domestic workforce strategies. Where Jobs Plans are still in development, occupations may be added for a shorter period if there is a realistic plan for improvement. This approach balances the need to fill immediate vacancies with long-term workforce sustainability.
Visa Duration and Settlement Considerations
TSL visas should last between three and five years without automatic renewals beyond five years. As well, this reinforces the temporary nature of the route. The MAC did not make a firm recommendation on settlement, noting that broader policy on Skilled Worker visas is still under review. However, if settlement remains possible, visa durations would need to align. If they exclude settlement, the Government must balance stability for employers with incentives to train UK workers.
Career Progression and Worker Protections
The MAC supports in-country switching from TSL roles to higher-skilled positions under the Skilled Worker route. Indeed, this offers progression opportunities and helps retain talent within the UK. To note, they recommend a minimum English language requirement of B1 to ensure workers can understand their rights and reduce the risk of exploitation.
Flexibility and Regional Variations
Additionally, the report highlights the importance of simplicity and flexibility in the TSL’s design. While they propose no changes to sponsorship models, settlement or visa caps, the Home Office hopes to explore alternative frameworks for vulnerable occupations. Certainly if they meet the criteria, Regional variations are possible. If so, salary thresholds should match those of the Skilled Worker route, with no discounts. Also, we understand the Government will publish a further report on salaries later this year.
Dependants and Recruitment Challenges
Current rules prevent TSL workers from bringing dependants to the UK. Although they made no recommendation, this restriction may discourage higher-skilled workers from moving into TSL roles.
Next Steps for Stage Two and the Temporary Shortage List
Stage Two of the MAC review will continue until summer 2026. During this period, the Committee will gather evidence from employers and industry bodies to assess how Jobs Plans address training and domestic recruitment. The MAC hopes to publish final recommendations on which occupations will appear on the Temporary Shortage List in July 2026.
For more information on the Temporary Shortage List
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