The UK’s Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) has published a list of 82 mid-level occupations for which foreign nationals will be eligible for temporary work visas. This list is considered the first stage in reforming the country’s immigration system, according to gov.uk.
According to the published information, the list covers a variety of sectors, from engineering and technical specialists and translators to welders, carpenters, and other professions. Foreign workers will be able to temporarily find employment in the UK in these occupations.
Temporary visas will be issued for a period of three to five years. Holders of this type of visa will not receive permanent residence upon expiration, but if they meet certain conditions, they will be able to switch to a Skilled Worker visa by upgrading their English language proficiency from B1 to B2.
Applicants for a temporary visa will be required to pay an application fee, an immigration health contribution, and an immigration skills fee. The Home Office is expected to review the minimum wage levels for the occupations included in the list in December 2025.
Key occupations include:
Engineering, electrical, and construction technicians
Welders, pipefitters, and metalworkers
Joiners, plasterers, painters, and roofers
Data analysts and project assistants
Marketing specialists and sales managers
Writers, translators, and photographers
Laboratory and medical technicians
IT support specialists and database administrators
Insurance assessors and financial advisers
Marine and aviation maintenance technicians
Interior and fashion designers
The second phase of finalizing the temporary occupation list is scheduled for July 2026. The Home Office will continue to monitor the effectiveness of the system, managing overseas labor demand through short-term solutions.
