UK Immigration 2025: MAC Review of Temporary Shortage List

In July 2025, the UK government introduced significant updates to its immigration system, including the Temporary Shortage List (TSL). This list is designed to address mid-skilled labour shortages in critical sectors by providing targeted immigration pathways for roles at RQF levels 3 to 5, enabling businesses to recruit overseas workers in areas where domestic labour supply is insufficient.

The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) has recently published its Stage One report, outlining the design of the TSL and identifying 82 occupations for further review. For a detailed breakdown of the policy and its implications, you can also read the original article “UK Immigration MAC Stage One Review of Temporary Shortage List 2025” .

In this blog, we explore the purpose of the MAC review, key features of the TSL, the potential impact on employers and workers, and practical steps businesses should take in preparation for Stage Two of the review.

Purpose of the MAC Stage One Report

The MAC Stage One report has two primary objectives:

Designing the TSL Framework

The MAC proposes operational guidelines for the Temporary Shortage List to ensure it aligns with the UK’s Industrial Strategy and addresses genuine labour shortages. The goal is to provide employers with access to mid-skilled workers while encouraging domestic workforce development through training and upskilling.

Shortlisting Occupations

The MAC has identified 82 occupations that are essential for key sectors, such as clean energy, advanced manufacturing, digital technology, life sciences, defence, financial services, creative industries, and national infrastructure. These roles will undergo further evaluation in Stage Two, which will consider evidence of labour shortages, demand projections, and sector-specific workforce needs.

Key Features of the Temporary Shortage List

1. Occupation Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for inclusion on the TSL, occupations must meet several conditions:

Skill Level – Positions must be at RQF levels 3 to 5, reflecting mid-skilled roles that are crucial to business operations but currently experiencing shortages.

Sector Importance – Occupations should be directly related to priority sectors outlined in the UK’s Industrial Strategy. This ensures that TSL visa holders contribute to the economic and technological growth of the UK.

Workforce Concentration – At least 50% of workers in the occupation should be employed within the priority sectors to prevent TSL visas from being used in unrelated industries.

These criteria are designed to target resources efficiently, ensuring that mid-skilled migrant workers support sectors that are strategically important to the UK economy.

2. Duration and Review

Occupations added to the TSL will remain eligible for an initial period of three years, after which the MAC will reassess them based on workforce planning, domestic recruitment trends, and the effectiveness of Jobs Plans. These Jobs Plans are strategic documents outlining how employers intend to train local talent and reduce reliance on overseas workers over time.

This temporary nature encourages employers to invest in domestic workforce development while still addressing urgent labour shortages.

3. Visa Conditions

The MAC recommends several visa conditions for TSL workers:

Visa Duration – Initially granted for 3 to 5 years, depending on the sector, without automatic renewal if the route does not lead to settlement.

Dependants – Currently, TSL visa holders cannot bring dependants to the UK, ensuring that the route remains strictly focused on filling skill gaps.

English Language Requirement – Minimum B1 proficiency is recommended to ensure effective workplace communication.

Sponsorship Flexibility – Designed to accommodate sectors with high self-employment or smaller employers who may struggle to meet standard sponsorship requirements.

4. Career Progression and Worker Protections

A key consideration in the MAC’s recommendations is worker progression. TSL visa holders will have opportunities to switch to higher-skilled routes, such as the Skilled Worker visa, if they meet the necessary criteria. This ensures that overseas workers can advance their careers in the UK, retain talent within the economy, and develop skills aligned with industry needs.

The MAC also emphasizes worker protections, including safeguarding against exploitation and ensuring fair pay, working conditions, and compliance with UK employment law.

Practical Implications for Employers

Employers must understand the potential impact of the TSL and prepare strategically:

Workforce Planning – Identify which roles could be eligible for TSL visas and assess reliance on overseas labour versus domestic recruitment.

Engage with Stage Two Consultation – Provide evidence to the MAC on labour shortages and skills gaps in your sector. Participation is vital to influence which occupations are finally included in the TSL.

Compliance Preparation – Ensure HR and payroll systems are robust, including monitoring job titles, salaries, and sector alignment to satisfy UK Home Office sponsorship obligations.

Upskilling Domestic Talent – Develop Jobs Plans demonstrating a long-term commitment to training local workers, which may support extensions and future TSL eligibility.

Budget Considerations – While the TSL may reduce recruitment delays, employers should plan for sponsorship fees, recruitment costs, and potential visa application administration.

Practical Implications for Workers

Mid-skilled workers looking to enter the UK under the TSL should consider the following:

Visa Duration – Be aware of the temporary nature of the TSL visa, which does not lead directly to settlement.

Career Advancement – Explore pathways to switch to Skilled Worker visas or other long-term routes if they wish to remain in the UK beyond the TSL period.

English Language Proficiency – Ensure that B1 or higher proficiency is met before applying.

Sector Relevance – Only roles within priority sectors are eligible, so applicants must align employment with approved industries.

Next Steps: Stage Two of the Review

Stage Two will run until July 2026, during which the MAC will:

Conduct a formal Call for Evidence from employers, industry bodies, and stakeholders.

Evaluate shortlisted occupations against labour market data, shortage evidence, and industrial priorities.

Make final recommendations on which roles should be included on the TSL.

This stage provides an opportunity for employers to actively shape policy and ensure that the final list meets both economic and workforce needs.

Conclusion

The MAC’s Stage One review of the Temporary Shortage List represents a major step toward addressing mid-skilled labour shortages in critical UK sectors. By prioritizing occupations essential to the Industrial Strategy, the TSL seeks to balance immediate workforce needs with longer-term domestic talent development.

 For tailored guidance and legal support regarding the Temporary Shortage List and its implications for your business or workforce, Taylor Hampton Solicitors offer expert advice to navigate the complexities of the UK immigration system effectively.