How do I check if my job is eligible for a Skilled Worker visa?

Look up your job title in the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) system and find the corresponding SOC code. Check that the code appears in Appendix Skilled Occupations of the Immigration Rules and that the role is at RQF Level 3 or above.

What skill level is needed for the Skilled Worker visa?

The job must be at RQF Level 3 or above, which is equivalent to A-level or higher. This includes professional, managerial, technical, and skilled trade occupations. Unskilled or elementary roles are generally not eligible.

Can I check the eligible jobs list online?

Yes. The full list is published in Appendix Skilled Occupations of the Immigration Rules on GOV.UK. It includes SOC codes, job titles, going rates, and any additional requirements.

What if my job title does not match the SOC code exactly?

SOC codes cover groups of related roles, not specific job titles. What matters is the duties and responsibilities of the role, not the exact title. Your employer should select the SOC code that best matches the actual job duties.

Skilled Worker Visa Eligible Jobs: Full List and How to Check 2026

Jobs eligible for the Skilled Worker visa must be at RQF Level 3 or above and have a valid SOC code listed in Appendix Skilled Occupations. This guide explains how to navigate the system and check your role's eligibility.

Understanding SOC Codes

Every occupation in the UK is classified under the Standard Occupational Classification system. Each occupation has a 4-digit SOC code. For the Skilled Worker visa, the role offered by your employer must map to an eligible SOC code.

Your employer selects the SOC code when creating your Certificate of Sponsorship. The code determines the going rate for your role and whether any special provisions (like the Immigration Salary List) apply.

Skill Level Requirements

The role must be at RQF Level 3 or above:

Level 3 (A-level equivalent): Skilled trades, technicians, some administrative roles.
Level 4-5 (Higher education/foundation degree): Associate professional roles.
Level 6 (Bachelor's degree): Professional roles.
Level 7+ (Master's/PhD): Senior professional and managerial roles.

Elementary occupations, basic sales roles, and manual labour are generally below Level 3 and not eligible.

How to Check Your Job

Go to Appendix Skilled Occupations on GOV.UK.
Search for your job title or browse by sector.
Note the SOC code and the going rate for the role.
Check whether the role is on the Immigration Salary List for any salary discount.
Confirm the salary threshold applies.

Common Eligible Occupations

Occupations that commonly qualify include:

IT professionals (software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists)
Healthcare workers ( doctors, nurses, pharmacists)
Engineers ( civil, mechanical, electrical)
Finance professionals ( accountants, financial analysts)
Teachers and education professionals
Skilled trades (electricians, plumbers, welders)
Creative professionals (graphic designers, architects)
Hospitality ( chefs at senior level)

When Your Job Title Does Not Match

SOC codes describe groups of related jobs, not specific titles. A "Customer Success Manager" might not appear by that title but could fall under a SOC code for business development or marketing professionals. What matters is the actual duties and responsibilities, not the title on your business card.

Your employer should select the SOC code that best matches the core duties of the role. If the wrong code is selected, the visa application could be refused.

Changes to the List

The eligible occupations list is reviewed and updated periodically. The 2026 changes include updates to some SOC codes and going rates. Always check the current version before applying.

Next Steps

Look up your role on the eligible occupations list. Confirm the SOC code and going rate with your employer. Ensure the salary offered meets the requirements.

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