Occupational Health Jobs in UK: 2026 Shortage Occupation List.

Are you an Occupational Health professional eyeing a move to the UK in 2026? The landscape for international recruitment has undergone its most significant transformation in a decade. The old “Shortage Occupation List” (SOL) is officially history, replaced by a more dynamic—and stricter—framework. Whether you are an Occupational Health Nurse (SOC 2231) or an Occupational Therapist (SOC 2222), understanding the transition from the Immigration Salary List (ISL) to the Temporary Shortage List (TSL) is the key to securing your visa and a competitive salary.

The 2026 Regulatory Pivot: From SOL to ISL and TSL

As of 2026, the UK government has moved away from broad “shortage” labels. Instead, the focus is on salary flexibility for crucial roles.

What is the Immigration Salary List (ISL)?

The ISL is the list that is used now. It lets employers pay a lower salary when they sponsor workers from abroad. But many jobs on this list will be checked again or removed by the end of 2026.

What is the Temporary Shortage List (TSL)?

The TSL is a new list. It is for medium-skilled jobs (RQF level 3 to 5). For Occupational Health professionals, these jobs usually need a degree (RQF level 6 or higher). So, most of you will use the ISL or the normal Health and Care Worker visa route. These changes make the system more careful. The government wants to protect UK workers’ wages but still allow hospitals and companies to hire skilled people from other countries.

Mandatory Salary Thresholds for 2026

The new salary rules for 2026 stop companies from paying foreign workers too little. This protects local workers. At the same time, it keeps healthcare jobs open for international staff.

Here are the main salary rules:

• Standard Health and Care Worker Visa: Minimum salary is £31,300. You get faster visa processing and lower fees.
• Roles on the Immigration Salary List (ISL): Minimum salary can be £25,000. This helps younger or less experienced Occupational Health professionals.
• National Pay Scale (NHS jobs): Minimum £25,000. This is for roles under the NHS Agenda for Change pay system.

A Helpful Tip

Occupational Health jobs come under the Health and Care Worker Visa. This means you do not pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). For one person, this saves about £1,035 every year. If you bring family, the savings are even bigger.

These salary levels are important. Employers must follow them when they offer you a job and sponsor your visa.

The “B2” English Language Mandate

One big change in 2026 is the English language requirement. It is now harder.

When Does This Start?

If you send your visa application on or after 8 January 2026, you must show B2 level English. B2 is upper-intermediate on the CEFR scale.

Why B2 and Not B1?

Before, B1 level was enough. B1 means you can talk about everyday things. But B2 means you can speak clearly about difficult or professional topics. This is very important for Occupational Health workers. You often need to explain workplace risks, health assessments, and safety plans to employees and managers.

You can prove B2 level with tests like IELTS, PTE, or Trinity College exams. Make sure your test is from an approved provider and not too old (usually less than 2 years).

Key Occupational Health SOC 2020 Codes

When your employer applies for your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), they must use the correct SOC 2020 code. Using old 2010 codes will make your visa application fail automatically.

Here are the main codes for Occupational Health roles:

• SOC 2231: Occupational Health Nurses (this includes all registered nursing professionals who work in occupational health).
• SOC 2222: Occupational Therapists.
• SOC 2211: Occupational Health Physicians (medical doctors who specialise in workplace health).
• SOC 2461: Occupational Health and Safety Managers (some of these roles may still be on the ISL).

Always check with your employer that they use the right code. A small mistake can delay or stop your visa.

Pathway to Permanent Residency (ILR)

Coming to the UK for an Occupational Health job is not just for a short time. Many people stay long-term and build a new life here.

Here is the usual path:

• Year 1: You arrive on a Health and Care Worker Visa. This visa is usually for 3 or 5 years.
• Years 2 to 4: You work in your job, collect Continuous Professional Development (CPD) points, and keep the same type of employment.
• Year 5: You can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). This means you can stay in the UK forever without visa limits. You need to show you are still needed in your job and earn the required salary at that time.
• Year 6 onwards: After ILR, you can apply for British Citizenship if you want.

This path is clear and achievable for most healthcare professionals. Many Occupational Health workers follow it successfully.

FAQ: 2026 UK Recruitment Queries

People often ask the same questions about moving to the UK for Occupational Health jobs. Here are some common ones with simple answers.

Would you like help to write a UK-style CV? I can help you make a “Functional CV” that shows your Occupational Health experience, SEQOHS knowledge, risk assessments, and health surveillance skills.

Disclaimer This information is only for education and guidance. Immigration rules can change quickly. Always check the latest details on the official UK government website (GOV.UK) or speak to your employer before you apply.