Categories: Expat Life

UK Tier 2 Visa: Resident Labour Test – what is this?

Q: MY current employer wants to apply for a UK Tier 2 Visa for myself, but apparently the resident labour market test needs to be fulfilled first. Can you please tell me what this is?

A: The UK Home Office is advised by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) as to which areas of the UK labour market are experiencing shortages. The occupations experiencing shortages of labour are compiled in the Shortage Occupation List.

If an occupation is not on the Shortage Occupation List, the employers are required to advertise the position — the resident labour market test. Where the employer can demonstrate after advertising the job, that there is no suitably qualified resident or EU citizen candidate available to fill the vacancy a sponsorship certificate can be issued to the non-EU citizen. This is done to protect the UK labour market.

Please do not hesitate to contact our offices for more information, or for assistance with your application.

JP Breytenbach
Director of Breytenbachs Immigration Consultants Limited
www.bic-immigration.com or info@bic-immigration.com

Breytenbachs Immigration Consultants

Breytenbachs Immigration Consultants Ltd offer expert advice and representation in relation to UK immigration law, UK visa applications, and UK visa reviews and appeals. Our highly qualified consultants have many years of experience in the field of immigration. We pride ourselves on our reputation for excellence, fast results, and friendly personal service.We also offer advice and representation in all South African immigration matters.