Architects added to Britain’s Shortage Occupation List

September 13, 2019 / Isla MacFarlane
Architects added to Britain’s Shortage Occupation List

Architects have officially been added to the Shortage Occupation List (SOL). The changes mean that people coming to the UK to work in architecture will get priority in securing a Tier 2 work visa, over occupations not on the list.

It also means that employers can advertise job vacancies for the occupations included to all nationalities as soon as it’s available, making it easier for them to access the international talent they need.

RIBA Chief Executive Alan Vallance said: “The UK’s immigration system can be expensive and opaque, and the official inclusion of architects on the Shortage Occupation List means the sector will now benefit from reduced administration and cost. However, we know that the burden remains high, especially for smaller practices, and the RIBA will continue to lobby for government to reduce the barriers practices looking to recruit international talent.

“International architects bring a wealth of experience, skills and creativity to the architecture sector. It’s vital that whatever the outcome of the Brexit impasse, we have an immigration system that supports and welcomes this talent.”

The Tier 2 shortage of occupation list (SOL) is a list of occupations recognised by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) as being in national shortage, which they assess would be sensible to fill, in part, through non-EEA migration.

Immigration Minister Seema Kennedy said: “Giving British based businesses the access to the brightest and best global talent is a key priority for this government. That is why we have made it easier for employers to hire the skilled workers that this country needs to flourish.”

When reviewing the shortage of occupation list, the MAC considers a range of factors including whether the role is in national shortage and whether it is sensible to fill with migrant workers.

The government has confirmed the reintroduction of Post-Study Work Visas, as part of a wider reform of the immigration system.

Jones said: “This a very welcome announcement for architects. The RIBA has long-recommended the return of the Post Study Work Visa, to ensure that we can attract and retain new talent to our world class schools of architecture.

“The revocation of this visa has significantly impacted international students studying in the UK, over the past seven years. In these uncertain times, with an imminent potential no-deal Brexit, we will continue to make a case for an immigration system that works for the sector.”

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