UK Immigration Policies: Easing Pathways for Overseas Builders

By Sanwar Ali:

Table of Contents

Index

1. Introduction
2. The Shortage Occupation List: A Brief Overview
3. The Expansion of the Shortage Occupation List
4. The Immigration Dilemma: A Conservative Perspective
5. The Impact on the Construction Sector
6. The Role of the Sponsor Licence in Recruiting Skilled Workers
7. The Hurdles Faced by Migrant Workers
8. The Future of the UK's Immigration Policies
9. Conclusion

Introduction

Britain's construction sector has long struggled with a shortage of skilled workers. This issue has been exacerbated by Brexit which led to an exodus of EU workers, and makes it much more difficult and expensive for EU workers to work in the UK. To address the labour shortages in the construction sector, the UK government has expanded the "shortage occupation list" to include more construction roles. This development has sparked heated debates and raised questions on the effectiveness of the UK's immigration policies.

The Shortage Occupation List: A Brief Overview

The 'shortage occupation list' is a list of occupations that the UK is struggling to fill with domestic workers. Positions on this list are open to foreign workers, who can apply for a Skilled Worker Visa if they secure a sponsored job offer from an employer and meet English language requirements.

The Expansion of the Shortage Occupation List

The addition of construction roles such as bricklayers, masons, roofers, carpenters, joiners, and plasterers to the shortage occupation list is an important development. The Home Office believes that this move will "aid the delivery of key national infrastructure and stimulate growth for related industries". However, the system remains expensive and bureaucratic, with a high salary threshold and very high Government fees, making it a challenge for many to qualify.

The Immigration Dilemma: A Conservative Perspective

This policy shift has sparked controversy within the Conservative Party. Despite promises to reduce immigration, the UK saw a record 606,000 migrants in the last year, a 24% increase from the previous year. Critics argue that the government should focus on "training up the British workforce" rather than relying on overseas labour.

The Impact on the Construction Sector

Suzannah Nichol, the chief executive of Build UK, has welcomed the move, stating that it is crucial for the construction sector to fill vacancies and address shortages swiftly. The addition of these roles to the shortage occupation list will help the industry continue to deliver essential infrastructure.

The Role of the Sponsor Licence in Recruiting Skilled Workers

Employers looking to hire from outside the UK will in many cases need to have a sponsor licence. Complying with sponsor licence obligations may not be that straightforward.

The Hurdles Faced by Migrant Workers

While the expansion of the shortage occupation list opens doors for more foreign workers, it also presents challenges. Many potential workers may not meet the language and financial requirements, posing barriers to their entry into the UK.

The Future of the UK's Immigration Policies

While the government's decision to expand the shortage occupation list may provide a temporary solution to the labour shortages in the construction sector, it also raises questions about the long-term sustainability of the UK's immigration policies.

Conclusion

The expansion of the shortage occupation list underscores the crucial role of migrant workers in the UK's economy. It remains to be seen how much difference this will make to reduce labour shortages in the construction sector. The policy shift may be inadequate to deal with the skills shortages, and has exposed the shortcomings of the UK's immigration system.

How Workpermit.com Can Help with Sponsor Licences

If you need help with employing Skilled Workers and help to apply for a Sponsor Licence, including complying with your Sponsor Licence obligations, Workpermit.com can help.

For more information and advice, please contact us on 0344 991 9222 or at london@workpermit.com(link sends e-mail)