Engineers and professional roles
Professional engineering roles, such as civil, structural, mechanical and electrical engineers, quantity surveyors and project managers, are usually at degree level (RQF 6). They can still be sponsored if the salary rules are met: at least £41,700 a year, or the going rate for the job if higher.
Trades: the temporary shortage list
Most construction trades are below degree level, so since July 2025 they can only be sponsored if the occupation is on the temporary shortage list. The interim list includes roles such as construction and building trades supervisors, painters and decorators, and floorers and wall tilers. Workers newly sponsored in these roles can't bring their partner or children as dependants.
The December 2026 deadline
The interim temporary shortage list runs until 31 December 2026 unless it is extended. In July 2026, the Migration Advisory Committee recommended a shorter future list of 28 occupations, including construction and manufacturing trades and engineering technicians. The government's final decision will decide which trades can be sponsored from 2027, so plan any trade recruitment early.
Compliance on construction sites
Construction is a priority sector for Home Office enforcement. Check the right to work of every worker, including those supplied by agencies and subcontractors where you are responsible. Employing someone without the right to work can lead to a civil penalty of up to £60,000 per worker, and action against your sponsor licence.
Sponsor licence for construction help in Manchester
We're IAA-regulated and based in Manchester city centre, working with employers across the North West and the rest of the UK. We check which of your roles can be sponsored, prepare your sponsor licence application, and keep you compliant with our sponsor licence compliance service.
How we help
- Check your eligibility and confirm the right route at your consultation
- Give you a personalised document checklist
- Prepare and complete your application forms
- Review all evidence against the current rules before submission
- Keep you updated until you have a decision
Fees and timescales
Our fee is agreed before we start. See our fees. Government fees are paid separately, and are listed on GOV.UK.
Common questions
Can construction companies still sponsor tradespeople?
Only for trades on the temporary shortage list, which runs until 31 December 2026 unless extended. Engineers and other degree-level roles can still be sponsored.
Can sponsored tradespeople bring their families?
Workers newly sponsored in temporary shortage list roles below degree level can’t bring dependants. Degree-level roles can.
What happens after December 2026?
The government is deciding which occupations stay on the list. We follow the changes and will advise you on your roles.