LAW & BORDER : The 3 Lists You Need To Know In Navigating UK Immigration In 2026

Hello, Kakoneks!

Are you confused by the different "lists" being mentioned regarding UK visas? From the Immigration Salary List to the brand-new Temporary Shortage List, knowing where your job falls is the key to a successful visa application or renewal.

To keep our community informed, here is a simple breakdown of the Three Main Lists governing Skilled Worker visas today:

1️⃣ The "Eligible Occupations" List (The Master List)

This is the foundation. If your job title or SOC Code isn’t on this list, it generally cannot be sponsored for a Skilled Worker Visa.

* What it means: This list covers all roles deemed "skilled" by the Home Office (from Business Managers to specialized trades).

* The 2026 Standard: For most new applicants, the minimum salary for jobs on this list is now £41,700. If your offer is below this, you'll need to see if your role qualifies for one of the other lists below.

2️⃣ The "Immigration Salary List" (ISL) – The Discount List

The ISL replaced the old Shortage Occupation List. If your job is here, your employer can sponsor you at a lower salary threshold.

* The Benefit: Instead of the standard £41,700, the general threshold is reduced to £33,400 (or higher, depending on the specific "going rate" for your job).

* Kakonek Spotlight: Bricklayers and certain Fishing Industry roles (like Fishing Boat Masters) are currently on this list, making it easier for companies to hire from abroad.

3️⃣ The "Temporary Shortage List" (TSL) – The Bridge List

Introduced in late 2025, the TSL is a special list for roles that are "medium-skilled" (RQF Level 3-5) which would otherwise be ineligible under the new stricter rules.

* Why it exists: It’s a temporary measure to fill urgent gaps in the UK workforce while local training catches up.

* The Catch: Most roles on this list are only eligible for sponsorship for a maximum of three years, and workers on the TSL often cannot bring dependants (family members) to the UK.

* Important Date: Many roles on the current TSL are set to expire on December 31, 2026, unless the government extends them.

💡 Quick Tips for our Kakoneks:

* Check the SOC Code: Don't just rely on your job title. Ask your employer for your 4-digit SOC Code (e.g., 5313 for Bricklayers) to see exactly which list you belong to.

* English Language Update: Remember that as of January 8, 2026, most new applicants now need to meet the higher B2 level of English proficiency.

* Stay Ahead: Immigration rules are moving fast this year. Always double-check the latest version of these lists before signing a new contract.

Which list does your job fall under? If you're unsure about your SOC Code or salary requirement, drop a comment below and let’s help each other out! 👇

Crystal Dias, Solicitor (lawyery.co)

(For comments and suggestions, e-mail TFCN at [email protected].)

Crystal Dias is a UK-qualified solicitor with a distinguished career in law. Since qualifying in 2003, she has owned Dias Solicitors in London and co-founded Lawyery. Her expertise and dedication have helped thousands of clients navigate complex legal landscapes, and she is highly regarded within the Filipino community for her advocacy on women’s and migrants’ rights.