Hiring and Sponsoring Bricklayers (SOC Code 5313)

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Hiring a bricklayer from overseas requires understanding the correct Standard Occupational Classification code, salary thresholds, and sponsor licence obligations. This guide covers everything UK employers need to know about sponsoring bricklayers under SOC code 5313.

For related support, explore Annaizu’s sponsorship compliance software, mock audit inspection readiness and mock audit preparation.

Key Takeaways

Essential Points for Employers

• Bricklayers fall under SOC code 5313 and are eligible for sponsorship on the Skilled Worker visa route.
• Employers must hold a valid sponsor licence before issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship to an overseas bricklayer.
• The role must meet the minimum salary threshold set by the Home Office, which changes periodically.
• Bricklaying is a hands-on skilled trade - job duties must be accurately described in the CoS to avoid compliance issues.

What Is SOC Code 5313?

SOC code 5313 covers bricklayers and related occupations. Workers in this classification build, repair, and maintain structures using bricks, blocks, and other masonry materials. The role requires practical skill, knowledge of mortar mixing, and the ability to interpret construction plans.

Typical Job Duties Under SOC 5313

• Laying bricks, blocks, and stonework to construct walls, partitions, and other structures.
• Mixing and applying mortar to bond materials securely.
• Reading and interpreting architectural drawings and specifications.
• Cutting bricks and blocks to fit corners, openings, and other spaces.
• Ensuring work meets building regulations and quality standards.
• Repairing and restoring existing masonry structures.

Is Bricklaying Eligible for Skilled Worker Sponsorship?

Yes. SOC code 5313 is on the eligible occupations list for the Skilled Worker visa. This means UK employers with a sponsor licence can recruit bricklayers from outside the UK, provided the role and salary meet the required thresholds.

Skill and Salary Requirements

The role must be at RQF Level 3 or above. Bricklaying is accepted at this level. The minimum salary threshold for Skilled Worker sponsorship must be met - employers should check the current Home Office guidance on gov.uk for the latest figures, as these are updated periodically.

How to Sponsor a Bricklayer from Overseas

Step 1: Obtain a Sponsor Licence

Before hiring an overseas bricklayer, your business must hold a valid sponsor licence issued by the Home Office. Without this, you cannot issue a Certificate of Sponsorship or legally employ a migrant worker on a Skilled Worker visa.

Step 2: Assign a Certificate of Sponsorship

Once licensed, you assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to the individual bricklayer. The CoS must accurately reflect the job title, duties, salary, and working location. Inaccuracies can trigger a compliance review or suspension of your licence.

Step 3: The Worker Applies for Their Visa

The bricklayer uses the CoS reference number to apply for their Skilled Worker visa from outside the UK, or to switch status if they are already in the UK on an eligible visa category.

Step 4: Carry Out Right to Work Checks

Before the worker starts, you must carry out a right to work check and retain the evidence. For sponsored workers, this typically involves checking their visa vignette or digital immigration status.

Sponsor Licence Duties When Hiring Bricklayers

Holding a sponsor licence comes with ongoing compliance obligations. These apply throughout the duration of the worker's employment under sponsorship.

Key Ongoing Obligations

• Keep accurate records of each sponsored worker's contact details, absences, and right to work documents.
• Report significant changes to the worker's role, salary, or working location via the Sponsor Management System.
• Report if the worker stops showing up for work or their employment ends early.
• Cooperate with any Home Office compliance visit or audit.
• Ensure the worker is only doing the job described in their CoS.

Salary Thresholds for Bricklayers Under SOC 5313

The Home Office sets a minimum salary for each SOC code. For SOC 5313, employers must pay the higher of the general Skilled Worker threshold or the going rate for the occupation. Employers should verify the current going rate on the official eligibility list before assigning a CoS, as rates are subject to change.

New Entrant Rates

A lower new entrant salary rate may apply in certain circumstances, such as where the worker is under 26, is switching from a student visa, or is in their first two years of a postgraduate role. Check whether your candidate qualifies before applying the reduced rate.

Shortage Occupation and Immigration Salary List Considerations

The Immigration Salary List replaced the Shortage Occupation List following changes introduced in 2024. Bricklayers have historically been in demand across the UK construction sector. Employers should check whether SOC 5313 currently appears on the Immigration Salary List, as this affects the applicable salary threshold.

Recruiting Bricklayers: Practical Considerations

Advertising the Role

Unlike some other visa routes, the Skilled Worker route does not require a Resident Labour Market Test. You do not need to advertise the role to UK workers before sponsoring an overseas candidate. However, maintaining records of your recruitment process is good practice for compliance purposes.

Assessing Qualifications and Experience

Bricklaying qualifications vary by country. UK employers should assess whether overseas candidates hold equivalent experience or qualifications to those typically required in the UK construction industry. This may include NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Bricklaying or equivalent vocational credentials.

Working Conditions and Site Safety

Sponsored bricklayers must work in conditions that comply with UK employment law and health and safety regulations. Employers in construction have additional obligations under site safety legislation. Ensuring your sponsored workers have appropriate CSCS cards or site inductions is part of responsible sponsorship.

Common Mistakes Employers Make When Sponsoring Bricklayers

• Assigning a CoS with a salary below the required threshold for SOC 5313.
• Describing duties inaccurately - for example, listing management tasks that the worker will not actually perform.
• Failing to update the Sponsor Management System when the worker's role or location changes.
• Not carrying out right to work checks before the worker's first day.
• Allowing the worker to take on additional jobs outside their sponsored role without checking visa conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is SOC code 5313?

SOC code 5313 covers bricklayers and related masonry workers. It is used by the Home Office to classify the occupation for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship purposes.

Can I sponsor a bricklayer without a sponsor licence?

No. You must hold a valid sponsor licence before you can assign a Certificate of Sponsorship to any overseas worker, including bricklayers.

How long does it take to get a sponsor licence?

The Home Office standard processing time is around eight weeks, though priority processing is available for an additional fee and can reduce this to around ten working days.

Do I need to advertise the bricklayer role before sponsoring someone?

No. The Skilled Worker route does not require a Resident Labour Market Test, so you are not obliged to advertise to UK workers first.

What salary must I pay a sponsored bricklayer?

You must pay the higher of the general Skilled Worker minimum threshold or the going rate for SOC 5313. Check the current figures on gov.uk before assigning a Certificate of Sponsorship.

Can a sponsored bricklayer work on multiple sites?

Yes, provided the work remains within the scope of their sponsored role and the employer updates the Sponsor Management System if there are significant changes to working locations.

What happens if I overpay or underpay a sponsored worker?

Underpaying a sponsored worker below the required threshold is a serious compliance breach that can lead to your sponsor licence being downgraded or revoked. Overpaying does not create a compliance issue.

Conclusion

Sponsoring a bricklayer under SOC code 5313 is a straightforward process when you have the right licence, systems, and compliance procedures in place. Annaizu helps UK employers manage sponsor licence duties, right to work checks, and workforce compliance in one place - so you can focus on finding the right people for your construction projects.