What the occupation code decides
| Result | What it means | Can you sponsor a new hire? |
|---|---|---|
| Eligible | RQF 6 or above, listed in the appendix | Yes |
| Temporary Shortage List | Medium skilled (RQF 3 to 5), on the list | Yes, until 31 December 2026. No salary discount, and dependants generally can’t come |
| Immigration Salary List | Medium skilled (RQF 3 to 5), with some or all jobs on the list | Yes, for the jobs the list covers, until 31 December 2026. Dependants generally can’t come |
| Health and Care | An eligible health or care role, often on national pay scales | Yes, on the Health and Care Worker visa |
| Closed | Care workers and home carers | No new overseas hires since 22 July 2025. Some in-country applications until 22 July 2028 |
| Not eligible | Below the skill level and on neither list | No |
Every sponsored job is matched to a four-digit code from the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC 2020). The Home Office lists each code in Appendix Skilled Occupations with its skill level, its going rate and any special rules.
The code you choose decides three things: whether the role can be sponsored at all, the minimum salary, and which salary discounts are available.
For the route’s other requirements, see our Skilled Worker visa guide.
Amin K. 
Monya R. 
Scott C. 
Maria R. 
Anamaria C. 
Solomon P. 
