ManagerIn 2025, the United Kingdom continues to face a shortage of skilled professionals across multiple sectors. To fill these critical roles, the UK government allows licensed employers to sponsor foreign workers under the Skilled Worker visa program.
For international job seekers, this creates an excellent opportunity to secure high-demand roles that come with visa sponsorship and, eventually, a pathway to permanent residency.
This guide explores the shortage occupation jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship in 2025, including average salaries, job categories, and how to apply.
What Are Shortage Occupation Jobs?
The Shortage Occupation List (SOL) is an official document published by the UK Home Office. It highlights jobs where there aren’t enough local workers to meet demand. Employers hiring in these roles can sponsor overseas workers more easily.
Benefits of applying for shortage occupation roles:
- Lower visa application fees.
- Reduced minimum salary thresholds.
- Faster visa processing.
- Higher chances of receiving sponsorship.
Top Shortage Occupation Jobs in the UK With Visa Sponsorship in 2025
1. Healthcare Professionals
- Roles: Nurses, Care Workers, Senior Care Assistants, Paramedics.
- Average Salary: £25,000 – £45,000/year
- Why in Demand?
- The NHS faces a critical staffing shortage.
- An aging population requires more healthcare support.
- Visa Route: Health and Care Worker visa.
2. Medical Specialists
- Roles: Radiographers, Midwives, Senior Care Specialists, Psychiatric Nurses.
- Average Salary: £35,000 – £70,000/year
- Why in Demand?
- Specialist roles are hard to fill locally.
- Mental health and diagnostic services are under pressure.
- Visa Route: Skilled Worker visa.
3. Social Care Workers
- Roles: Adult Social Care Workers, Support Workers.
- Average Salary: £22,000 – £35,000/year
- Why in Demand?
- UK councils need thousands of social care professionals.
- High staff turnover creates urgent vacancies.
- Visa Route: Skilled Worker visa.
4. Teachers (STEM & Special Education)
- Roles: Secondary School Teachers in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Computer Science.
- Average Salary: £28,000 – £45,000/year
- Why in Demand?
- STEM subjects face a long-term teacher shortage.
- Special Education teachers are in critical demand.
- Visa Route: Skilled Worker visa with education sponsorship.
5. Veterinarians
- Average Salary: £32,000 – £60,000/year
- Why in Demand?
- Shortage of animal health specialists across the UK.
- High demand in both urban and rural veterinary practices.
- Visa Route: Skilled Worker visa.
6. Construction & Skilled Trades
- Roles: Bricklayers, Welders, Butchers.
- Average Salary: £25,000 – £40,000/year
- Why in Demand?
- Ongoing infrastructure projects and housing shortages.
- Shortage of skilled manual workers.
- Visa Route: Skilled Worker visa.
7. Engineering Roles
- Roles: Civil Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Electrical Engineers.
- Average Salary: £35,000 – £70,000/year
- Why in Demand?
- Major UK infrastructure and renewable energy projects.
- STEM talent shortages.
- Visa Route: Skilled Worker visa.
How to Apply for Shortage Occupation Jobs in the UK
- Check the UK Shortage Occupation List — Updated regularly on the UK Government website.
- Search Job Boards — Use platforms like NHS Jobs, Indeed, Reed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn.
- Apply to Licensed Sponsors — Only employers approved by the Home Office can provide sponsorship.
- Prepare Your Documents — UK-format CV, qualifications, and English language test results (IELTS/UKVI).
- Submit Your Visa Application — Once you have a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer.
FAQs
Q1: Do shortage occupation jobs have lower salary thresholds?
Yes, the minimum salary is reduced, making it easier for international workers to qualify.
Q2: Are healthcare jobs always on the shortage occupation list?
Yes, healthcare roles consistently remain on the SOL due to high demand.
Q3: Can shortage occupation roles lead to permanent residency?
Yes, after 5 years on a Skilled Worker visa, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Q4: Do all shortage jobs guarantee sponsorship?
No, only if the employer is a licensed sponsor. Always verify before applying.
Conclusion
The UK’s shortage occupation jobs in 2025 offer international workers a golden opportunity to build rewarding careers while securing visa sponsorship. With demand across healthcare, teaching, engineering, and skilled trades, qualified professionals can take advantage of faster visa processing, lower requirements, and long-term career growth.
If you’re planning to work in the UK, targeting shortage occupations is one of the smartest pathways to success and permanent residency.
Manager