Hiring and Sponsoring IT managers (SOC Code 2132)

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Hiring an IT manager from overseas is a significant decision, and understanding the UK's sponsorship requirements for SOC Code 2132 is essential before you begin. This guide covers everything UK employers need to know about sponsoring IT managers, from eligibility and salary thresholds to the application process and compliance obligations.

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

For 2026 checks, cross-check the latest GOV.UK immigration skills charge before making sponsorship or visa decisions.

Key Takeaways

Essential Points for Employers

• IT managers fall under SOC Code 2132, which covers planning, coordinating and managing IT and telecommunications services.
• Employers must hold a valid Skilled Worker sponsor licence before assigning a Certificate of Sponsorship.
• The role must meet the minimum salary threshold set by the Home Office, currently £41,700 per year or the going rate for the occupation, whichever is higher.
• IT managers are on the eligible occupations list, making them straightforward to sponsor under the Skilled Worker route.
• Sponsors must carry out right to work checks and maintain accurate records throughout employment.

What Is SOC Code 2132?

Definition and Scope

SOC Code 2132 covers IT and telecommunications managers. Workers in this category plan, organise, direct and coordinate the acquisition, development, maintenance and use of computer and telecommunications systems within organisations. The role typically involves managing teams of IT professionals, overseeing infrastructure projects and ensuring systems meet user and business requirements.

Typical Job Titles Under SOC 2132

• IT Manager
• IT Director
• Head of IT
• Telecommunications Manager
• Network Operations Manager
• IT Infrastructure Manager
• Systems Manager
• IT Service Delivery Manager

Core Responsibilities

• Planning and coordinating the installation and maintenance of IT systems and networks
• Managing IT budgets and procurement of hardware, software and services
• Overseeing user support functions and service desk operations
• Developing IT policies, procedures and security frameworks
• Leading and developing IT teams and managing performance
• Liaising with senior management on IT strategy and digital transformation

Skilled Worker Visa Eligibility for SOC 2132

Is SOC 2132 Eligible for Sponsorship?

Yes. IT and telecommunications managers under SOC Code 2132 are listed as an eligible occupation under the Skilled Worker route. Employers with a valid sponsor licence can assign a Certificate of Sponsorship to a candidate for this role.

Minimum Salary Requirements

From April 2024, the general salary threshold for Skilled Worker visas increased significantly. For SOC 2132, employers must pay the higher of the following:

• The general threshold of £41,700 per year
• The going rate for SOC 2132 as set by the Home Office

The going rate is based on the median salary for the occupation drawn from the Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings. Employers should always check the latest Immigration Rules Appendix Skilled Occupations for the current figures before assigning a Certificate of Sponsorship.

Skill Level Requirements

SOC 2132 is classified at RQF Level 6 or above, which means the role is considered graduate level. Candidates do not need a specific degree, but they must be able to demonstrate the skills and experience needed for the role. The Home Office assesses suitability based on the job description provided by the sponsor.

English Language Requirement

Candidates must demonstrate English language proficiency at B1 level or above on the Common European Framework of Reference. This can be satisfied through a recognised English language test, a degree taught in English, or by being a national of a majority English-speaking country.

How to Sponsor an IT Manager Under SOC 2132

Step 1: Obtain a Sponsor Licence

If your organisation does not already hold a Skilled Worker sponsor licence, you must apply to the Home Office before you can sponsor anyone. The application involves demonstrating that your business is genuine, operating lawfully and capable of meeting sponsor duties.

Step 2: Identify the Role and Check Eligibility

Confirm that the IT manager role you are hiring for genuinely falls within SOC 2132. Review the Standard Occupational Classification descriptions and ensure the duties match. Misclassifying a role can lead to compliance failures and licence suspension.

Step 3: Carry Out a Resident Labour Market Check (if required)

Since November 2021, the formal Resident Labour Market Test has been abolished under the points-based system. However, it remains good practice to document your recruitment process to show that the role was genuinely open and that the sponsored candidate was selected on merit.

Step 4: Assign a Certificate of Sponsorship

Once you are satisfied the role and candidate meet the requirements, assign a Certificate of Sponsorship through the Sponsor Management System. The CoS must accurately reflect the job title, salary, hours and start date. The candidate uses the CoS reference number to make their visa application.

Step 5: Candidate Makes Their Visa Application

The candidate applies for a Skilled Worker visa online, paying the application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge. Processing times vary, but most straightforward applications are decided within three weeks from outside the UK.

Step 6: Fulfil Ongoing Sponsor Duties

Once the worker arrives and begins employment, your sponsor duties do not end. You must report certain changes and events via the Sponsor Management System, keep right to work records up to date and cooperate with any Home Office compliance visits.

Sponsor Licence Duties When Hiring IT Managers

Reporting Obligations

Sponsors must report the following events to the Home Office within specified timeframes using the Sponsor Management System:

• The worker does not arrive for their first day of work
• The worker is absent from work for more than ten consecutive working days without authorisation
• There is a significant change to the worker's role, salary or working pattern
• The worker's employment is terminated early

Record-Keeping Requirements

Sponsors must keep copies of the following documents for each sponsored worker throughout employment and for two years after they leave:

• Passport or travel document used to verify right to work
• Biometric Residence Permit or eVisa confirmation
• Contact details including current address and telephone number
• Employment contract and any amendments
• Payslips and evidence of salary payments

Right to Work Checks

Before the worker begins employment, you must carry out a compliant right to work check. For sponsored workers, this involves checking the visa conditions using the Home Office online checking service with the worker's share code. Manual document checks are not sufficient for workers with an eVisa.

Salary Considerations for IT Managers

Setting the Right Salary

IT managers are typically among the higher-earning professionals in any organisation, and the salaries offered under sponsorship must reflect this. Paying below the going rate - even if it meets the general threshold - is a breach of sponsor duties and can lead to enforcement action.

What Counts Towards the Salary Threshold

• Basic guaranteed salary counts in full
• Allowances that are guaranteed and non-conditional can count
• Discretionary bonuses, overtime and commission do not count
• Benefits in kind such as accommodation or car allowances do not count

Part-Time IT Manager Roles

It is possible to sponsor an IT manager on a part-time basis, but the salary must still meet the appropriate threshold when calculated on a pro-rata basis against a full-time equivalent. The hourly rate must also meet the minimum requirement. Part-time sponsorship arrangements require careful calculation before the CoS is assigned.

Common Mistakes Employers Make When Sponsoring SOC 2132 Roles

Incorrect SOC Code Assignment

Assigning the wrong SOC code is one of the most common errors in sponsorship. If a role is more accurately described under a different SOC code - for example, a software development manager under SOC 2133 - using SOC 2132 can create compliance risks. Always map the duties carefully before assigning a code.

Paying Below the Going Rate

Some employers assume that meeting the general threshold of £41,700 is sufficient. However, if the Home Office going rate for SOC 2132 is higher, the going rate takes precedence. Underpaying can result in the worker's visa being curtailed and the sponsor facing licence sanctions.

Failing to Update the Sponsor Management System

Changes such as a salary increase, a change in job title, a move to a different office location or a change in working hours must be reported via the SMS. Many employers do not realise that these updates are mandatory, not optional.

Not Conducting Right to Work Checks Correctly

A right to work check using the online service must be completed before the worker starts. Delaying this or relying on document copies rather than the online service can leave the employer exposed to civil penalties even when the worker has valid leave.

Frequently Asked Questions

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