1. What Are SOC Codes in the UK?
SOC Codes (Standard Occupational Classification Codes) are codes used by the UK government to classify and organize jobs according to their skill level and skill content. Managed by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), SOC Codes are critical in areas like visa applications, job classification, and employment statistics. Each job role in the UK has a unique SOC Code that helps employers, immigration officials, and statisticians categorize occupations consistently.
2. Why Are SOC Codes Important for Visa Applications?
SOC Codes are particularly important for individuals applying for a Skilled Worker Visa and other work visas in the UK. They determine if a role qualifies for a work visa and specify the minimum salary requirement for each job type. When applying for a visa, an applicant’s job role must match a SOC Code eligible for sponsorship, with the offered salary meeting the code’s requirements.
3. How Are SOC Codes Structured?
Each SOC Code is a four-digit number that represents a specific occupation or job category. Here’s how the structure works:
- First Digit: Represents the broad occupation category (e.g., 2 = Professional Occupations).
- Second and Third Digits: Provide further classification by specific field or occupation group.
- Fourth Digit: Identifies the specific job role within that group.
For example:
- SOC Code 2136: Represents “Programmers and Software Development Professionals.”
- SOC Code 2211: Represents “Medical Practitioners.”
This structure makes it easy to categorize and identify roles accurately.
4. How to Find the Right SOC Code for Your Job Role
To find the correct SOC Code, follow these steps:
- Use the ONS Occupational Classification Tool: The ONS provides an online tool to search for SOC Codes by job title or description.
- Consult Your Employer: Employers often know the appropriate SOC Code for roles they are hiring for, especially when it involves visa sponsorship.
- UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) Guidance: The Home Office provides a list of eligible SOC Codes for work visas, including salary thresholds.
The right SOC Code must align with the job’s duties, salary, and skill level to avoid visa issues.
5. SOC Codes for Skilled Worker Visa Eligibility
The Skilled Worker Visa has specific SOC Codes that are eligible for sponsorship. Key criteria include:
- Skill Level: Jobs must be skilled to RQF Level 3 (A-level equivalent) or higher.
- Salary Requirements: Each SOC Code has a minimum salary requirement that must be met or exceeded.
For example, 2135 IT Business Analysts, Architects, and Systems Designers requires a minimum salary of £26,500 or the going rate for the position, whichever is higher.
Check the Home Office’s Skilled Occupations List for a detailed list of eligible SOC Codes and salary thresholds.
6. Common SOC Codes and Their Minimum Salary Requirements
Below are some examples of common SOC Codes and their corresponding minimum salary requirements:
| SOC Code | Job Role | Minimum Salary (or Going Rate) |
|---|---|---|
| 2136 | Programmers and Software Development Professionals | £26,500 |
| 2211 | Medical Practitioners | £30,720 |
| 2423 | Management Consultants and Business Analysts | £28,000 |
| 2431 | Architects | £28,000 |
| 2135 | IT Business Analysts, Architects, and System Designers | £26,500 |
These minimum salaries vary by occupation and ensure that visa applicants are paid appropriately for their skills and experience.
7. SOC Codes for Shortage Occupations
Some SOC Codes are designated as Shortage Occupations, meaning the UK has a high demand for workers in these fields. This designation can make it easier for employers to sponsor visas, as salary thresholds may be lower for these roles. Common shortage occupations include:
- Healthcare roles (e.g., nurses, doctors)
- Engineering roles (e.g., civil engineers, mechanical engineers)
- IT and Technology (e.g., software developers, data scientists)
The shortage occupation list is updated periodically based on industry demand.
8. How SOC Codes Affect Salary and Job Requirements
SOC Codes are used to ensure fair wages and consistent skill standards in the UK job market. For visa applications, SOC Codes:
- Set Minimum Salary Levels: Ensure employees are compensated fairly and reduce risks of underpayment.
- Define Job Skill Levels: Ensure that only roles with appropriate skill levels qualify for certain visas, helping maintain workforce standards.
- Impact Visa Sponsorship Eligibility: Specific codes determine whether a role is eligible for visa sponsorship under routes like the Skilled Worker Visa.
These rules prevent exploitation and ensure that the UK attracts talent in genuine skilled roles.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use any SOC Code for my job when applying for a visa?
A: No, the job must match an eligible SOC Code for the Skilled Worker Visa, and you must meet the minimum salary requirement.
Q2: How often are SOC Codes updated?
A: The ONS updates SOC Codes every few years, with the last major revision in 2020.
Q3: Can my SOC Code affect my visa approval?
A: Yes, choosing the correct SOC Code is essential, as it determines eligibility, skill level, and salary requirements for visas.
Q4: Do all SOC Codes have the same minimum salary threshold?
A: No, each SOC Code has a different salary requirement based on the occupation and skill level.
Q5: Where can I find a list of SOC Codes?
A: The Office for National Statistics (ONS) and the Home Office provide lists of SOC Codes. The Skilled Worker Visa guidance also includes eligible SOC Codes.