SOC 2020 code 5224Only if already on a Skilled Worker visa
Precision instrument makers and repairers: Skilled Worker visa salary
Since 22 July 2025, jobs in SOC 5224 (precision instrument makers and repairers) can no longer be sponsored for new Skilled Worker applicants. People who already held a Skilled Worker visa before then can still be sponsored in this occupation if they're paid at least £41,700 a year.
What this covers
Job titles in SOC 5224 include: Calibration and precision instrument technicians, Camera and photographic equipment technicians, Horologists, watch makers and repairers, Optical technicians.
Questions about SOC 5224
- What salary do precision instrument makers and repairers need for a UK Skilled Worker visa?
- Since 22 July 2025, jobs in SOC 5224 (precision instrument makers and repairers) can no longer be sponsored for new Skilled Worker applicants. People who already held a Skilled Worker visa before then can still be sponsored in this occupation if they're paid at least £41,700 a year.
- 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
- 5221 Metal machining setters and setter-operatorsOnly if already on a Skilled Worker visa
- 5222 Tool makers, tool fitters and markers-outOnly if already on a Skilled Worker visa
- 5223 Metal working production and maintenance fittersFrom £41,700
- 5225 Air-conditioning and refrigeration installers and repairersFrom £41,700
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.