Large worker shortages in the UK have led to the relaxation of visa requirements for workers in certain sectors. Various jobs have been added to the government shortage of occupations list, with a majority of jobs being in the construction industry. Foreign individuals that are skilled in bricklaying, plastering, roof tiling, and carpentry will have lower visa application fees and will be eligible for a skilled worker visa. The UK government is hoping that relaxing visa restrictions will fill worker vacancies in the construction industry, and lead to greater development of national infrastructure. Government officials are predicting that increases in infrastructure around the UK could lead to economic growth in other industries.
See "The UK eases visa restrictions for construction occupations to attract foreign workers", Julia Kollewe, The Guardian, July 20, 2023