The United Kingdom has released a new list of 82 job roles that now qualify for temporary work visas, as the country looks to solve its growing labour shortage.

The list includes jobs like welders, engineering technicians, photographers, translators, logistics managers, and other skilled or semi-skilled roles. 

These jobs are part of the Temporary Shortage List, a new plan aimed at helping industries that are currently short of workers.

This announcement comes just days after the UK banned foreigners from applying for 100 other roles to give citizens more job opportunities. 

Now, the government is trying to balance between protecting local jobs and filling urgent skill gaps across key industries.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the move would help meet labour needs while keeping immigration under control. The jobs listed will qualify for three- to five-year temporary visas, but they do not lead to permanent residency unless new policies are introduced later.

The UK’s Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) also made it clear that companies must first try to hire local workers before bringing in foreigners. Employers will have to show proof that they’ve trained or searched for British workers before applying to hire from abroad.

Applicants will also need to meet minimum English language requirements, to ensure smooth integration into British workplaces.

The UK’s decision reflects a global struggle, countries want to protect local employment while still attracting the skills their economies need. 

Similar policies have appeared in other parts of the world, where governments are tightening borders but also opening temporary doors for skilled migrants.

What this means for Nigerians

For many Nigerians, especially those in technical and creative jobs, this update offers both opportunity and challenge. 

Roles like welding, photography, and logistics are in demand, but competition will be tough and visa rules strict.

Still, the new list could open doors for skilled Nigerians looking for short-term work experience in the UK. It also highlights how global job markets are shifting—countries are being forced to balance between local job protection and the need for foreign expertise.