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    Soc Code

    Glossary

    SOC Code

    A SOC (Standard Occupational Classification) code is a 4-digit UK government code that classifies an occupation by its skill level, duties, and typical entry requirements — used by the Home Office to determine whether a role qualifies for visa sponsorship and what salary threshold applies.

    The current edition is SOC 2020. The Home Office maintains a list of eligible SOC codes for Skilled Worker visas — most are at RQF Level 3 (A-level) or above. Each code has a "going rate" — the median salary HMRC and the Home Office expect for that role — and the role must pay at least the higher of the going rate or the general Skilled Worker threshold. Choosing the wrong SOC code is a common cause of visa refusal and sponsor compliance breaches.

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