Question 1

Can physical scientists get a UK Skilled Worker visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes — Physical scientists roles fall under SOC 2114 (Higher Skilled), so they qualify for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Your employer will need a sponsor licence and must pay at least the going rate for this occupation.

Question 2

What salary do physical scientists need for visa sponsorship?

Accepted Answer

The going rate for Physical scientists (SOC 2114) is £54,600 (£28.00 per hour). Occupation rate applies. Your employer must pay whichever is higher: this going rate or the general Skilled Worker threshold of £41,700 per year.

Question 3

What job titles are covered by SOC 2114?

Accepted Answer

SOC 2114 covers a range of physical scientists roles, including: Geologists, Geophysicists, Hydrogeologists and hydrologists, Meteorologists, Physical scientists not elsewhere classified.. Keep in mind that the Home Office matches jobs by duties rather than title alone — two roles with the same title can fall under different SOC codes depending on the actual work involved.

Question 4

Is there a lower salary for new graduates entering physical scientists roles?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you're under 26, a recent graduate, or switching from a Student visa, you count as a "new entrant" and your employer only needs to pay 70% of the going rate (minimum £30,960/year). For Physical scientists, that works out to £41,500. The discount lasts up to four years.

Question 5

Where can I find physical scientists jobs with UK visa sponsorship?

Accepted Answer

We list Physical scientists roles from companies with a Home Office sponsor licence — scroll down to see what's currently open. You can also search our full jobs database for more visa-sponsored positions across the UK.

SOC 2114 — Physical scientists

Visa Eligibility & Salary Requirements

Eligibility Status

Going Rate

Lower Rate (New Entrants)

Related Job Titles

Physical scientists Jobs with Visa Sponsorship

Related Occupation Codes

Frequently Asked Questions