SOC Code UK: Your Complete 2025 Guide for Visas and Employment | UK Immigration Navigator

Welcome to UK Immigration Navigator! In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about SOC Code UK. Whether you’re applying for a Skilled Worker Visa, sponsoring an employee, or simply curious about how jobs are classified, this guide will explain SOC codes in plain language, with practical examples and updates for 2024. Let’s get started!

What is a SOC Code UK?

A SOC code (Standard Occupational Classification) is a four-digit number used in the UK to categorize jobs based on skill level, qualifications, and job responsibilities. Managed by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), SOC codes are critical for:

• UK Visas: Proving a job meets Skilled Worker Visa requirements.
• Sponsorship Licences: Employers assigning Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS).
• Salary Benchmarks: Ensuring roles meet minimum income thresholds.

The current system, SOC 2020, replaced SOC 2010 and aligns with global job classification standards.

Why Are SOC Codes Important?

Using the correct SOC code is mandatory for:

1. Skilled Worker Visas: Jobs must be at RQF Level 3 (A-level equivalent) or above.
2. Salary Requirements: Minimum pay varies by SOC code (e.g., £26,200/year for most roles, £20,960 for shortage occupations).
3. Sponsorship Compliance: Employers face penalties for assigning incorrect codes.

Example: A software developer (SOC 2136) must earn at least £26,200 (or the “going rate” for that role, whichever is higher).

How to Find Your SOC Code

Follow these steps to identify the correct SOC code for your role:

Step 1: Use the ONS SOC 2020 Index

Search by job title on the ONS Occupation Coding Tool.

Step 2: Check the Home Office’s Eligible Occupations List

Confirm the SOC code is eligible for sponsorship under the UK’s Skilled Worker Visa list.

Step 3: Verify Salary Requirements

Cross-reference the SOC code with the going rates to ensure compliance.

SOC Code Structure Explained

Each SOC 2020 code has four digits and corresponds to specific job details:

1. First Digit: Major group (e.g., 2 = Professional Occupations).
2. Second Digit: Sub-major group (e.g., 21 = Science, Research, Engineering).
3. Third Digit: Minor group (e.g., 213 = Information Technology).
4. Fourth Digit: Unit group (e.g., 2136 = Programmers/Software Developers).

Example Breakdown:

• 2136:
  • 2: Professionals
  • 21: IT, Engineering, Science
  • 213: IT and Telecoms
  • 2136: Programmers/Software Developers

Common SOC Codes for UK Visas (2024)

Source: Home Office Going Rates, 2025

2024 Updates to SOC Codes

1. New Tech Roles: Added codes for AI specialists (e.g., SOC 2139 – Data Scientists).
2. Healthcare Expansion: More codes for nursing specialties (e.g., SOC 2231 – Mental Health Nurses).
3. Green Jobs: Roles like “Sustainability Officer” (SOC 2155) now eligible for visas.

SOC Codes and Salary Requirements

Your salary must meet both:

1. General Threshold: £26,200/year (or £20,960 for shortage roles).
2. Going Rate: The typical salary for your SOC code (whichever is higher).

Example:

• SOC 2136 (Software Developer):
  • General threshold: £26,200.
  • Going rate: £42,000.
  • You must earn ≥ £42,000.

How Employers Use SOC Codes

Employers sponsoring workers must:

1. Assign a SOC Code: For every CoS issued.
2. Justify the Role: Prove the job meets skill and salary criteria.
3. Maintain Records: Keep documents for compliance checks.

Penalties for Errors:

• Fines up to £45,000 per illegal worker.
• Loss of sponsorship licence.

FAQs About SOC Codes in the UK

Q1: Can I change my SOC code after getting a visa?
Yes, but you must apply for a new visa if your job role changes significantly.

Q2: What if my job isn’t on the eligible occupations list?
You may need to apply under a different visa (e.g., Health and Care Visa) or qualify via exceptions.

Q3: Do self-employed workers need a SOC code?
No. SOC codes apply only to sponsored employees.

Q4: How often are SOC codes updated?
Major updates occur every 10 years (next in 2030), but minor adjustments happen annually.

Q5: Can one job have multiple SOC codes?
No. Each role must align with one primary code.

Common SOC Code Mistakes to Avoid

1. Guessing the Code: Use the ONS tool—don’t assume!
2. Ignoring Salary Rules: Always check both thresholds.
3. Outdated Codes: SOC 2010 codes are no longer valid.

How to Appeal a SOC Code Decision

If your visa is refused due to an incorrect SOC code:

1. Review the Home Office Letter: Identify the stated issue.
2. Gather Evidence: Provide job descriptions, contracts, and salary data.
3. Resubmit or Appeal: Correct the code and reapply within 14 days.

Key Takeaways for 2024

1. Accuracy is Vital: A wrong SOC code can derail visa applications.
2. Stay Updated: Follow Home Office announcements for code changes.
3. Double-Check Salaries: Ensure you meet both general and going rate thresholds.

Need help with SOC codes or visa applications? Consult the Home Office’s Skilled Worker guidance or contact an immigration advisor. For more UK visa guides, explore UK Immigration Navigator!