The United Kingdom, UK has launched the Immigration Salary List (ISL) for 2025, broadening opportunities for foreign skilled workers.

The ISL replaces the previous Shortage Occupation List, featuring a wider range of high-demand roles and raising salary thresholds to ensure competitive earnings.

This initiative underscores the UK’s commitment to fostering an environment where workers and expertise are actively sought and rewarded with a solid salary.

The ISL targets experts across diverse fields, including science, technology, the arts, and skilled trades. In contrast to earlier immigration policies, the ISL prioritizes attracting individuals with high-earning potential who can contribute meaningfully to the UK economy.

“The ISL opens new doors for those whose skills align with our economic and social growth ambitions,” said a spokesperson from the Home Office.

“We are focused on attracting the best minds who can bring innovation and drive into the UK.”

High-Demand Professions on the ISL.

The ISL for 2025 highlights 23 professions spanning biological sciences, graphic design, air traffic control, and even traditional crafts like stonemasonry and shipbuilding.

Among the notable roles, according to DAAD, are:

Biological Scientists with a minimum salary threshold of £38,000 and potential earnings from £47,500 to over £70,000.

Chemical Scientists in the Nuclear Industry (Scotland only) with a threshold of £35,200 and salaries ranging from £50,000 to £80,000.

Archaeologists starting at £36,400, with average salaries from £35,000 to £60,000.

Graphic and Multimedia Designers earning a minimum of £30,960, with salaries from £30,000 to £50,000.

Laboratory Technicians (with 3+ years of experience) have a minimum salary threshold of £28,800, with salaries reaching £40,000.

Pharmaceutical Technicians earning £29,600 as a minimum, with the potential to make up to £45,000.
High Integrity Pipe Welders (with 3+ years of experience) starting at £36,400, earning from £40,000 to £60,000.

Boat and Shop Builders and Repairers (Scotland only) have a minimum salary of £28,100, with salaries reaching £40,000.

Stonemasons and Related Trades with a minimum of £30,960 and salaries ranging up to £50,000.

Bricklayers earning a minimum of £30,960 and salaries up to £45,000.

Roofers, Roof Tilers, and Slaters with a minimum threshold of £30,960 and earnings up to £40,000.

Carpenters and Joiners with a minimum salary of £30,960 and salaries up to £45,000.

Retrofitters starting at £30,960 with potential earnings up to £50,000.

Classical Ballet Dancers earning a minimum of £30,960, with salaries varying based on performance and experience.

Commercial Pilots who start at £53,900, with salaries ranging from £60,000 to over £150,000.

Air Traffic Controllers starting at £49,600, with the potential to earn up to £100,000.

Aircraft Maintenance and Related Trades with a minimum salary of £35,200 and earnings reaching £55,000.

Ship and Hovercraft Officers earning a minimum of £38,000, with salaries ranging from £40,000 to £80,000.

Train and Tram Drivers with a threshold of £33,300 and salaries up to £50,000.

Managers and Proprietors in Forestry, Fishing, and Related Services (fishing boat masters only in Scotland) starting at £30,960, with salaries up to £50,000.

Forestry and Logging Workers earning a minimum salary of £28,100, with potential earnings reaching £35,000.

Farmers with a starting salary of £28,100 and potential earnings up to £40,000.

These roles come with minimum salary thresholds designed to attract top-tier professionals while supporting the UK’s growing industries.

How to Apply for UK Workers Visa

The primary visa for ISL-listed roles is the Skilled Worker visa, which allows for work and residence in the UK with the potential for permanent settlement. Prospective applicants are encouraged to use online job boards, government portals like GOV.UK, and recruitment agencies to find suitable roles.

The ISL’s introduction represents a major shift in the UK’s immigration landscape, aiming to build a stronger, skill-driven economy. For professionals ready to take their careers to the next level, this move offers a unique opportunity to thrive in the UK’s diverse and vibrant job market.