Scaffolders, stagers and riggers (SOC 8151, also written as job code 8151) does not currently qualify for UK Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. The government considers it below the skill level required for the Skilled Worker route. There are closely related roles that do qualify, listed further down.
Not sure if SOC 8151 applies to your situation?
The answer above is the general rule. Your case can be different if you already hold a visa and are extending or switching, if you were sponsored before a rule change, or depending on your salary. Our AI assistant can explain the full rules from gov.uk guidance.
Ask AI about SOC 8151Scaffolders, stagers and riggers erect and dismantle scaffolding and working platforms, set up lifting equipment and ships’ rigging, maintain and repair steeples, industrial chimneys and other tall structures and install, maintain and repair ropes, wires and cables.
There are no formal academic entry requirements. Training is initially received on-the-job. Skilled workers must obtain Construction Skills recognised scaffolders record scheme cards through the completion of approved courses and further work experience. NVQs/SVQs in Scaffolding are available at levels 2 and 3.
Roles classified under SOC 8151 fall below the RQF Level 6 skill threshold required for new Skilled Worker visa applications. Employers cannot sponsor new overseas workers for this specific occupation code.
If you're interested in this field, you have a few options:
Not under SOC 8151. Scaffolders, stagers and riggers is classified as Ineligible, which doesn't meet the requirements for Skilled Worker sponsorship right now. That said, some closely related occupation codes in the same field are eligible, so have a look at the related codes section on this page.
Job code 8151, SOC code 8151 and occupation code 8151 all refer to the same thing: the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC 2020) unit group covering scaffolders, stagers and riggers. The Home Office uses this 4-digit code on a Certificate of Sponsorship to check Skilled Worker visa eligibility and to set the going rate salary threshold for the role.
SOC 8151 covers a range of scaffolders, stagers and riggers roles, including: Engineering construction riggers, Scaffolders and stagers, Scaffolders, stagers and riggers 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.
SOC 8151 itself doesn't qualify, but that doesn't mean you're out of options. The most common workaround is finding a closely related role that falls under an eligible SOC code. We've listed any eligible alternatives further up this page. It's also worth looking into visa routes that aren't tied to a specific occupation, like the Global Talent visa, Graduate visa, or High Potential Individual visa.
This information is provided as guidance only and should not be treated as legal advice. Eligibility criteria and salary thresholds are based on the latest published government data. Always verify with the official UK government guidance or seek professional immigration advice.