The Shortage Occupation List (SOL) contains jobs identified as being in shortage and where immigration is a sensible part of addressing that shortage. Following recommendations by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC), the Home Office added all jobs in the following occupations in construction to the list with effect from 7 August 2023:
∙ 5312 Bricklayers and masons
∙ 5313 Roofers, roof tilers and slaters
∙ 5315 Carpenters and joiners
∙ 5319 Construction and building trades not elsewhere classified
∙ 5321 Plasterers
Asylum seekers with an ARC card and granted the right to work can seek employment in jobs listed on the shortage occupation list. This inclusion provides an avenue for them to secure work and contribute their skills and expertise to sectors experiencing skill shortages.
The new inclusion of construction jobs has widened the pool of eligible jobs for asylum seekers and should allow them to benefit from improved employment prospects, facilitating their professional growth and development.
Skilled worker visa and employers in construction
Additionally, jobs on the SOL are also eligible for sponsorship under the points-based system leading to a skilled worker visa for those who wish to come to the UK and work in construction.
By leveraging the advantages offered by jobs on the shortage occupation list, employers can access a more diverse talent pool and fill critical vacancies.
