Occupation codes
Skilled Worker occupation codes and skill level
Skilled Worker eligibility is tied to the occupation code for the work, not simply the wording of the job title. The occupation code is therefore one of the first checks to make before assessing salary or sponsorship.
Last reviewed 21 October 2026
Key points
- Occupation codes use the SOC 2020 system.
- For Certificates of Sponsorship assigned on or after 22 July 2025, jobs normally need to be graduate level or above.
- Some medium skilled jobs can still qualify through specific lists or transitional provisions.
- A worker does not need a graduate degree simply because the role is classed at graduate skill level.
Why the occupation code matters
The occupation code links the role to immigration eligibility and to the going rate used for salary checks. A similar sounding job title may not always map to the same code.
GOV.UK publishes the eligible occupation table and identifies jobs as higher skilled, medium skilled or ineligible.
The July 2025 skill level change
Sponsor guidance states that for Certificates of Sponsorship assigned on or after 22 July 2025, a job must normally be listed at RQF level 6 or above, or the equivalent level in Scotland or Wales.
Some jobs below graduate level can still qualify where they are included on the Immigration Salary List, Temporary Shortage List, or where a transitional provision applies.
Use the code before checking salary
Once you have the likely occupation code, check whether the role is eligible and then check the relevant going rate. Salary rules should be assessed against the occupation code, not against a generic salary figure alone.
Official sources
Rules and public datasets can change. Use the official source when making a current decision.