Dealing with post-Brexit staff shortages

Businesses are struggling to attract UK talent, while work visa criteria are blocking access to overseas workers

Almost half of UK businesses are experiencing staff shortages, according to new research. For many executives, the problems stem from Brexit. 

According to a recent survey by the Institute of Directors, 44% of UK businesses are encountering such problems. Four in 10 attribute the shortages to a lack of a talent pipeline from the EU following the UK’s exit from the union. 

Since 1 January 2021, employers that want to hire someone from outside the UK to work for their organisation must acquire a sponsor licence, which can cost from £364 to £1,820 for a small company or charitable organisation and £1,000 to £5,000 for a medium- to large-sized business, depending on an employee’s length of stay.