Regulatory Documents · May 5, 2026

Ultimate Guide to UK Skilled Occupation Codes and Visa Eligibility with TorlyAI

Master UK Skilled Occupations appendix and ensure visa eligibility using TorlyAI's AI-powered eligibility checker tailored to endorsing body requirements.

Ultimate Guide to UK Skilled Occupation Codes and Visa Eligibility with TorlyAI

Dealing with UK skilled occupation codes can feel like a maze. Each code ties to a specific job role and a minimum going rate. Get it wrong and you risk delays, refusals or even wasted fees.

In this guide you’ll learn how these codes shape point-based visas and sponsorships. We break down the tables, explain going rates and show you where to look. Plus we introduce Torly.ai’s smart tools that speed up your eligibility check. Use AI-Powered UK skilled occupation codes assistant to verify your status in seconds.

What Are UK Skilled Occupation Codes?

The UK Home Office uses SOC 2020 codes to slot jobs into skill levels. If your role is skilled to RQF level 6 or above, you’ll find it in Appendix Skilled Occupations. Here’s the gist:

  • SOC 2020 code: a four-digit number.
  • Job titles: non-exclusive examples under each code.
  • Going rate: an annual salary or hourly rate requirement.

For sponsors and migrants, these codes decide if you can apply under the Skilled Worker route, Global Business Mobility or Scale-up route. They also affect settlement applications.

Breaking Down the Tables

On GOV.UK you’ll see two main tables:

  1. Table 1 – Median ASHE data, going rate and percentage reductions (70%, 80%, 90%).
  2. Table 2 – 25th percentile ASHE data, lower salary thresholds.

A few key notes:

  • Rates are based on a 37.5-hour week.
  • Choose the higher of: median rate or £17.13/hour (or £12.82 for Table 2).
  • Only the full going rate applies for settlement.

How to Find Your SOC Code and Going Rate

Identify your job title and match it to a SOC 2020 code. Follow these steps:

  1. Visit the official list on GOV.UK.
  2. Search by code or keywords like “software developer” or “nurse”.
  3. Note the going rate column – check if PhD points apply.
  4. Calculate pro-rata if your sponsor offers different hours.

For example, code 2134 covers “Programmers and software development professionals”. The going rate is £54,700 per year or £28.05 per hour. If you work 30 hours a week, multiply accordingly.

Points-Based System & Visa Eligibility Requirements

The points-based visa system requires at least 70 points. Here’s how it breaks down:

  • Job offer at appropriate skill level: 20 points.
  • Salary at or above the going rate: 20 points.
  • English language proficiency: 10 points.
  • Additional points for PhD in a relevant subject or shortage occupation.

When your job’s SOC code comes with a “Yes” under PhD eligibility, you can claim extra points. That might be enough to tip you over the mark.

How Torly.ai Simplifies Code Lookup and Eligibility

Say goodbye to manual searches. Torly.ai offers:

  • Instant multi-layered eligibility checks against the Home Office tables.
  • Custom alerts if your salary or job title falls short.
  • Gap analysis to suggest next steps in salary negotiations or upskilling.

Want faster results? Build Your Endorsement Application with 6 AI Agents

In one click you’ll see if you match a Skilled Worker, Graduate Trainee or Scale-up route. No more hunting through spreadsheets or confusing PDFs.

Step-by-Step: Checking Your Code with Torly.ai

  1. Sign up on the Torly.ai platform and choose the eligibility checker.
  2. Enter your job title, salary and proposed hours.
  3. The system auto-matches to the nearest SOC 2020 code.
  4. Get a clear verdict: “Eligible”, “At Risk” or “Not Eligible”.
  5. Download a tailored report to share with sponsors or solicitors.

Tip: If you’re preparing an Innovator Founder Visa business plan, try the TorlyAI BP Builder APP to generate a plan aligned with endorsing body criteria. Get your AI-powered assistant for UK Innovator Founder Visa business plan preparation

Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them

  • Mis-matching job titles: Use exact matches or synonyms listed under each SOC code.
  • Ignoring pro-ration: Always adjust for part-time roles.
  • Overlooking extra points: Check if your PhD or shortage occupation status applies.

With Torly.ai you avoid these mistakes. Its real-time feedback flags issues before you submit.

Beyond Codes: Preparing Your Application

Knowing your UK skilled occupation codes is just step one. You’ll also need:

  • A valid CoS (Certificate of Sponsorship) from a Home Office licence holder.
  • Proof of English language (e.g. IELTS or equivalent).
  • Evidence of salary or funding maintenance.
  • Tuberculosis test results (if from a listed country).

Torly.ai’s portal guides you through every document. From business plan drafts to compliance validation, you get 24/7 support.

Conclusion: Ready to Lock In Your Eligibility?

Mastering UK skilled occupation codes ensures you hit the right visa route and salary threshold. Torly.ai turns a complex process into simple, actionable steps. Start your journey with confidence and check your status now. Check UK skilled occupation codes eligibility with Torly.ai

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