Definition
A shortage occupation is a role or profession that national authorities identify as facing a persistent lack of available workers in the local labour market. Immigration systems often give these roles special treatment, such as lower salary thresholds, fewer documentary hurdles, or waivers from the usual labour-market test. The list of shortage occupations is usually national, route-specific, and changeable, so applicants should confirm that the target job still appears on the live official list.
Related terms
Labour Market Test
A requirement for employers to demonstrate they could not find a suitable EEA candidate before hiring a non-EU worker for a specific position.
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Salary Threshold
A minimum annual gross salary that a job offer must meet for an applicant to qualify for certain work permits, most notably the EU Blue Card.
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Work Permit
An official authorisation granting a non-citizen the legal right to be employed or self-employed in a country, usually issued alongside or embedded in a residence permit.
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