UK introduces Immigration Salary list (ISL) to reduce net migration of skilled workers.
In a significant move aimed at reshaping its immigration landscape, the UK government has recently implemented sweeping changes, including a substantial 48% increase in the salary requirement for skilled worker visas. Alongside this adjustment, the government has discontinued the Shortage Occupation List (SOL) and its associated 20% salary concession.
Effective April 4, 2024, the Shortage Occupation List (SOL) will be replaced by the Immigration Salary List (ISL), following recommendations put forth by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC). This strategic shift is part of the UK Home Office’s broader initiative to reduce the net migration figure, aligning with its policy objectives.
According to insights from the UK Home Office, the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) has proposed initial occupations for inclusion in the Immigration Salary List (ISL). These recommendations mark a pivotal departure from the previous immigration framework, particularly impacting the Skilled Worker (SW) pathway.
Key recommendations from the MAC report include the inclusion of 21 occupations in the ISL, constituting 8% of job roles under the SW route. This signifies a notable decrease from the previous 30% representation under the SOL. Emphasizing the importance of skilled and in-demand roles, the government aims to ensure that no industry becomes overly reliant on migration. Furthermore, the ISL is designed not to suppress wages or impede the hiring of local workers.
To safeguard local workers and prevent migrant exploitation, the MAC suggests eliminating the 20% wage reduction for ISL-designated shortage jobs. Effective April 4, the Skilled Worker visa’s minimum salary will rise from £26,200 to £38,700, reflecting a 48% increase. This measure is intended to control entry numbers, alleviate strain on public services, and mitigate wage undercutting by employers hiring low-cost foreign labor.
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Additionally, adjustments to the family visa’s minimum salary requirement will come into effect, starting from April 11. The threshold will gradually increase to £38,700 by early 2025, ensuring adequate financial support for dependents residing in the UK.
The government will retain the new entrant concession for individuals under 26, offering a 30% reduction on the specific occupation salary threshold and a 20% reduction on the general salary limit, subject to meeting the higher threshold.
Here’s a list of recommended occupations included in the Immigration Salary List (ISL):
- Managers and proprietors in forestry, fishing, and related services
- Laboratory technicians
- Pharmaceutical technicians
- Boat and ship builders and repairers
- Stonemasons and related trades
- Bricklayers
- Roofers, roof tilers, and slaters
- Construction and building trades not elsewhere classified
- Animal care services occupations not elsewhere classified
- Care workers and home carers
- Senior care workers
- New occupations recommended due to increased salary thresholds:
- Chemical scientists
- Biological scientists
- Social and humanities scientists
- Artists
- Dancers and choreographers
- Musicians
- Arts officers, producers, and directors
- Graphic and multimedia designers
- Welding trades
- Carpenters and joiners.
By implementing these changes and introducing the Immigration Salary List (ISL), the UK government aims to shape the influx of skilled workers, ensuring a balanced approach that meets both economic demands and domestic workforce needs.
