Skill shortage visa in UK is a set of rules and regulations which allows skilled workers to come and take on jobs that are currently understaffed in the country, so as to help develop the economy. The demand for skilled foreign workers has been growing considerably over the years and this necessitates an increase in the volume of work being done in a particular sector. Skill shortage visa in UK is one of the ways in which such issues could be addressed.
The issue of skill shortage visa in UK is a big issue that many immigrants face when they plan to migrate to the UK. To fill the skills shortages shortage of these jobs, employers hire new workers with the required skills.
A Skill Shortage Visa in UK is more than just a visa for skilled workers. It is a strong endorsement of the skills and achievements of individuals looking to come to the UK. The visa is designed to assist talented individuals who wish to live, work or study in the UK, but can’t find suitable jobs or training opportunities in their home country.
Skill Shortage Visa In UK is an immigration scheme initiated by the British government in the year 1976 to bring skilled labor into Britain. This helps people who are working abroad, but wish to live and work in one of the country’s famous cities like London or Liverpool. The program was introduced to encourage more mobility within and outside the country, while addressing specific issues like security concerns and unemployment problems.
Skill Shortage Visa Categories in UK
The UK has a number of skill shortage visa categories, each with its own requirements. You will need to meet the requirements for each category in order to apply for a visa.
Job offer
To qualify for a Tier 2 (General) visa, you must have been offered a job by your employer and you must be able to start work within 12 months of being granted permission to enter the UK.
You must also have been offered a role with an employer who is registered to sponsor skilled workers under the Tier 2 (General) visa category.
You may not be able to apply if you do not have any relevant qualifications or experience, but there are exceptions where employers may still want to sponsor you as long as they can demonstrate that they cannot find someone else with your skillset in the same area.
There are two skill shortage categories in the UK immigration system:
1. Shortage of Skilled Workers – This category allows British employers to take up to 20% of their workforce from overseas. Foreign workers must have a minimum standard of education and/or experience that is higher than what is required for the current UK labour market.
2. High-Skilled Migrant – This category allows employers to take up to 100% of their workforce from overseas. For this category, foreign workers must have a minimum standard of education and/or experience that is higher than what is required for the current UK labour market.
More Details
The UK has a number of different skill shortage visa categories.
This is a short guide to them and what they mean.
General Skills Shortage (NSS) – for those who want to come to the UK for up to 12 months as an NSS worker, but do not necessarily have a specific job in mind. They will be able to work in any sector, including the public sector. They can also apply for settlement after only 6 months if they qualify.
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) – for those who have the skills and qualifications that are needed by businesses in these areas. You can apply for settlement after only 6 months if you qualify, but it’s unlikely that you would receive it within this timeframe.
Highly Skilled Migrant – under this category you must have exceptional talent in a specific field and be able to show there is no UK employer offering the same level of experience at reasonable cost.