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The United Kingdom has released an updated list of 82 occupations now eligible for Temporary Work Visas, opening new opportunities for skilled professionals from Nigeria and other countries seeking short-term employment in Britain.
According to information published by the UK Home Office, the expansion is part of efforts to address critical labour shortages in key industries while ensuring that businesses can recruit qualified international workers to fill essential roles.
The list covers a broad range of sectors, including healthcare, education, construction, engineering, hospitality, agriculture, and information technology.
Among the new additions are nursing assistants, care workers, laboratory technicians, software developers, welders, electricians, chefs, and agricultural machinery operators.
The Temporary Work Visa scheme allows foreign nationals to work in the UK for a defined period — typically up to 12 months—under employer sponsorship.
Eligible applicants must hold valid job offers from approved sponsors and meet minimum salary and skill requirements specified by the Home Office.
A government spokesperson said the expanded list was developed after consultations with industry bodies and employers struggling to fill positions.
“This update reflects our commitment to supporting sectors that are vital to the UK economy,” the statement read. “It also ensures fair access to opportunities for skilled workers worldwide, including from the Commonwealth.”
Immigration experts note that the move could benefit thousands of Nigerians seeking short-term work experience abroad, particularly in healthcare and technology—two sectors where UK demand remains high.
They, however, advised applicants to ensure compliance with visa terms to avoid breaches that could affect future immigration status.
The update comes amid the UK’s broader review of its post-Brexit immigration policies, which aim to balance economic needs with domestic workforce development.
Employers are being urged to prioritise fair wages and training opportunities for local staff while responsibly using the visa scheme to address genuine skill shortages.
Recruitment agencies in Nigeria have welcomed the announcement, calling it a “timely opportunity” for skilled workers to gain international exposure.
They have also encouraged applicants to verify job offers carefully through the official UK government website to avoid scams.
The new eligibility list underscores Britain’s continued reliance on global talent and reflects an evolving approach to immigration that seeks to maintain competitiveness while safeguarding labour standards.
