SOC 2020 code 2161Eligible

Research and development (R&D) managers: Skilled Worker visa salary

For a Skilled Worker visa in SOC 2161 (research and development (R&D) managers), you need a salary of at least £54,400 a year: the going rate for this occupation, which is above the £41,700 general minimum. New entrants, such as recent graduates, people under 26 or those switching from a Student or Graduate visa, need at least £38,100.

Minimum salary
£54,400
£27.90 an hour
Going rate
£54,400
For a 37.5-hour week
New entrants
£38,100
70% of the going rate, at least £33,400

What this covers

Job titles in SOC 2161 include: Laboratory managers, Research and development (R&D) design managers.

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Questions about SOC 2161

What salary do research and development (R&D) managers need for a UK Skilled Worker visa?
For a Skilled Worker visa in SOC 2161 (research and development (R&D) managers), you need a salary of at least £54,400 a year: the going rate for this occupation, which is above the £41,700 general minimum. New entrants, such as recent graduates, people under 26 or those switching from a Student or Graduate visa, need at least £38,100.
What is the going rate for SOC 2161?
The going rate for Research and development (R&D) managers (SOC 2161) is £54,400 a year (£27.90 an hour) for a 37.5-hour week. It must be pro-rated for other working patterns.
Can a new graduate be sponsored in SOC 2161?
Yes, if the job meets the new-entrant rate: at least £38,100 a year, which is 70% of the going rate and no less than £33,400. New-entrant rates can be used for up to four years in total.
Who decides which occupation code a job uses?
Your sponsor chooses the SOC 2020 code when it assigns your certificate of sponsorship. It must match the job's actual duties, not just its title.

Related occupations

Source: Immigration Rules Appendix Skilled Occupations and the Temporary Shortage List on GOV.UK, as of 13 October 2026. A guide, not immigration advice: PhD discounts, the Immigration Salary List and pre-April-2024 transitional rates aren't covered.