The UK’s immigration system is undergoing major changes with the abolition of the Immigration Salary List (ISL). This list previously allowed certain skilled roles to be filled at lower salary thresholds, making it easier for employers to hire foreign workers in shortage sectors. Its removal signals a shift towards stricter salary requirements and a more selective approach to skilled migration.
What Was the Immigration Salary List?
The Immigration Salary List was a revised version of the Shortage Occupation List. It helped employers hire foreign workers for specific roles that were in high demand, often with a reduced minimum salary requirement. These jobs included roles in healthcare, education, construction, and other key sectors where local labour was insufficient.
What’s Changing?
From July 2025, the ISL is being replaced with a Temporary Shortage List. This new list is time-limited and applies only to a narrow range of “critical jobs.” Workers in these roles will no longer receive salary discounts or be allowed to bring dependents. All applicants must meet full salary thresholds and graduate-level skill requirements.
Why the Change?
The government aims to ensure migrant workers are paid equally to local workers, prevent wage undercutting, and encourage domestic workforce development. By limiting the list to truly critical roles and removing long-term concessions, the focus shifts to training and hiring more UK-based talent.
Implications for Employers and Applicants
For employers, the removal of the ISL means higher salary commitments and fewer roles eligible for shortage-based concessions. Businesses will need to review their recruitment strategies, invest in workforce training, and consider the long-term availability of skills in the UK.
For applicants, the changes mean meeting higher salary thresholds and stricter skill requirements. Opportunities under shortage provisions will be fewer, more competitive, and temporary.
What You Should Do Next
Employers should identify which roles are critical to their operations, review eligibility under the Temporary Shortage List, and plan for higher wage budgets. Applicants should check that their qualifications meet the required standards and look for roles that meet full visa requirements without relying on reduced thresholds.
Final Thoughts
The abolition of the Immigration Salary List marks a significant shift in the UK’s approach to skilled migration. While it creates challenges for both employers and applicants, it also encourages investment in local talent and prioritises higher-paid, highly skilled roles. Preparation and adaptation will be key to navigating this new landscape.
