MAC recommends 28 jobs for new Temporary Shortage List access
27 Jul 2026
The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) has published its Stage 2 report on the Temporary Shortage List (TSL), the list that lets certain mid skilled jobs still qualify for sponsored work visas. The MAC says: "we have recommended 28 occupations receive 18-month access to the TSL and none warrant full access through to the next TSL review which we expect to be in three years' time."
This matters if you work in, or are being sponsored for, a job classed as RQF level 3 to 5 (below degree level). Since the Skilled Worker route raised its threshold to degree level roles, jobs at this lower skill level can only be sponsored if they sit on the TSL. The interim version of that list, launched in July 2025, held 52 occupations. After reviewing all of them, the MAC found that only 28 should carry on, and only for a further 18 months rather than the usual three year listing.
Nothing has changed yet for visa holders or applicants. This is a recommendation, not a rule change. The government still has to decide which of the MAC's proposals to accept and update the Immigration Rules before any new or updated Temporary Shortage List takes effect. If your job depends on TSL eligibility, keep an eye on official announcements about which occupations make the final list, but there is no action to take right now.
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