With the UK's immigration reforms reducing the number of occupations eligible for Skilled Worker sponsorship, many employers have been left wondering whether recruiting internationally is still a viable option.
While the list of eligible roles has narrowed, there are still genuine opportunities to sponsor overseas talent — provided you know which SOC codes remain open and how to build a compliant case around them. Here are four that continue to offer real routes to sponsorship.
Nursery Education Teaching Professionals
Roles include: Nursery Teacher, Early Years Teacher.
For early years providers struggling to fill qualified teaching posts domestically, this remains one of the more accessible sponsorship routes — particularly for candidates with recognised early years qualifications.
IT Business Analysts, Architects and Systems Designers
Roles include: IT Business Analyst, Solutions Architect, Systems Designer, Enterprise Architect, Digital Transformation Consultant, Computer Analyst, Computer Scientist, Data Architect, Data Engineer, IT Systems Architect, IT Solutions Architect and Designer, and IT Business Analysts, Architects and Systems Designers (not elsewhere classified).
This broad code covers a wide range of senior technical and analytical roles, making it one of the most flexible options for employers in digital and technology-driven sectors.
Other Psychologists
Roles include: Clinical Psychologist, Educational Psychologist, Counselling Psychologist, Occupational Psychologist, and Forensic Psychologist.
With ongoing shortages across mental health and educational support services, this code offers a genuine route for specialist practitioners to fill hard-to-recruit posts.
Financial Accounts Managers
Roles include: Financial Accounts Manager, Claims Manager, Credit Manager, Investment Manager, Relationship Manager, and Financial Accounts Managers (not elsewhere classified).
A strong option for financial services and professional services employers looking to bring in experienced management-level talent.
The Takeaway
International recruitment hasn't closed — it's just become more targeted. The key is understanding which occupations still qualify, matching your roles accurately to the correct SOC code, and building a sponsorship case that stands up to scrutiny.
If you're unsure whether your vacancy still qualifies for sponsorship, or you need help navigating the new eligibility criteria, get in touch with KAS International. We'll help you find the route that works.