UK Reshapes its Immigration System to Attract Top Talent and Ensure Fair Wages

The United Kingdom is implementing reforms to its immigration
policies by prioritizing the recruitment of highly skilled professionals.

This overhaul centres on replacing the Shortage Occupation List (SOL) with the Immigration Salary List (ISL), taking effect on April 4, 2024. This shift reflects the government's commitment to the recommendations of the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) in a bid to establish a more balanced and effective approach to skilled worker migration. The newly introduced ISL targets attracting highly qualified individuals for specific positions experiencing shortages of qualified domestic workers.

This strategy ensures immigration directly addresses critical labour market needs, moving away from a system potentially used by employers to secure cheaper labour at the expense of domestic wages. Previously, the SOL offered employers lower salaries for certain in-demand roles. However, concerns were raised about this practice, suggesting it could unfairly undercut wages for domestic workers and potentially exploit migrant employees. The MAC proposed a list of 21 occupations for the initial ISL to address these concerns and promote fair compensation across the board.

This list, representing only 8% of eligible Skilled Worker visa roles, will be continually reviewed to adapt to the evolving needs of the UK labour market. The chosen occupations within the ISL encompass a diverse range of sectors. These include management and ownership positions in forestry, fishing, and related services, Bricklayers, Roofers, laboratory and pharmaceutical technicians, construction trades, and senior care workers. In response to the increased salary thresholds, the MAC has also suggested incorporating new occupations into the ISL including scientific professions, artists, designers, and specific trades like welding and carpentry.

It's important to note that the existing discount for young Skilled Worker visa applicants under 26 will remain in place for the foreseeable future. The anticipated effects of the higher salary thresholds associated with the ISL include a reduction in overall immigration numbers, a targeted influx of highly skilled individuals in areas facing talent shortages, and the promotion of domestic recruitment practices alongside ensuring fair wages for all workers.