Hiring and Sponsoring Biological Scientists (SOC Code 2112)

Biological scientists, categorized under SOC Code 2112, are at the forefront of scientific research, studying living organisms and their interactions with the environment. Their work is crucial to advancements in healthcare, environmental conservation, and biotechnology. As demand for skilled biological scientists continues to grow, UK employers are increasingly looking to recruit talent from overseas. This guide will help HR professionals navigate the process of hiring and sponsoring biological scientists under the UK’s immigration system.

What is SOC Code 2112 for Biological Scientists?

SOC Code 2112 covers biological scientists who study living organisms, including plants, animals, and microorganisms, in various environments. Their responsibilities often include:

• Conducting research: Studying biological processes and organisms to discover new information or develop new treatments and technologies.
• Analyzing data: Using laboratory techniques to analyze biological samples and interpret results.
• Developing biotechnologies: Innovating solutions for medical, agricultural, or environmental challenges.
• Collaborating with healthcare professionals: Assisting in the development of medicines, vaccines, and treatments.
• Ensuring safety compliance: Following laboratory safety protocols and adhering to environmental regulations.

Biological scientists are critical to scientific innovation, contributing to research that impacts medicine, agriculture, environmental conservation, and more.

Eligibility to Hire Biological Scientists (SOC Code 2112)

When hiring biological scientists from outside the UK, it’s essential to ensure that both the role and candidates meet the eligibility criteria under the Skilled Worker Visa program.

1. Job Requirements

Biological scientists must meet certain qualifications and experience requirements to be eligible for sponsorship. These may include:

• Academic qualifications: A degree in biology, biochemistry, microbiology, or a related field.
• Professional experience: Previous experience in laboratory research, data analysis, or biotechnology.
• Skills: Proficiency in laboratory techniques, data interpretation, and project management.

Ensure that the job description aligns with SOC Code 2112 and that the candidate's qualifications meet the requirements of the role.

2. Salary Thresholds

To sponsor a biological scientist under the Skilled Worker Visa, the job must meet the minimum salary threshold set by the UK Home Office. The general minimum salary threshold is £26,200 per year or the "going rate" for the role—whichever is higher.

However, since biological scientists are listed on the Immigration Salary List, the salary threshold is reduced to 80% of the usual minimum, which means the minimum salary requirement for biological scientists is £20,960 per year.

To ensure your salary offer meets immigration requirements, use the Minimum Salary Calculator.

3. Immigration Salary List

Biological scientists are listed on the Immigration Salary List, making the sponsorship process more accessible for employers. Benefits include:

• Lower salary thresholds: 80% of the standard requirement.
• Reduced visa fees: Potentially lower costs for visa applications.

For more information on the Immigration Salary List, visit the immigration salary list.

Sponsoring Biological Scientists: A Step-by-Step Guide for HR Professionals

Once you have confirmed that the role and candidate meet the eligibility criteria, follow these steps to sponsor biological scientists under SOC Code 2112.

Step 1: Obtain a Sponsor Licence

Before you can hire non-UK workers, your organisation must apply for a sponsor licence. This licence allows you to legally sponsor overseas workers under the Skilled Worker Visa program.

• Sponsor Licence Application: Submit the required documentation proving that your business is legitimate and that you have a genuine vacancy. For more details, visit the sponsor licence application guide.
• Sponsor Licence Fees: Fees vary based on company size. Small businesses typically pay £536, while larger companies pay £1,476. For more information, see the sponsor licence fees guide.
• Processing Time: Applications usually take up to 8 weeks, but the Sponsor Licence Priority Service can expedite the process to 10 working days.

Once approved, you will receive a sponsor licence number, allowing you to assign Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS).

Step 2: Assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

After obtaining your sponsor licence, the next step is to assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to the biological scientist. This digital document contains key details about the role and the individual being sponsored.

• Defined vs Undefined CoS: Use a Defined CoS for workers applying from outside the UK and an Undefined CoS for those already residing in the UK. For more details, see the Defined & Undefined Certificates of Sponsorship guide.
• Required Documents: Provide key information such as the worker’s passport, job offer, and salary details. Refer to Documents Required for Certificate of Sponsorship for a full list.

Step 3: Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa

Once the CoS is assigned, the worker can apply for their Skilled Worker Visa.

• Visa Fees: Fees vary depending on the role and the length of the visa. You can estimate costs using the visa fees calculator.
• Immigration Skills Charge: Employers are also required to pay the Immigration Skills Charge, which is separate from the visa fees.

Conducting a Right to Work Check for Biological Scientists

Before the biological scientist can start work, employers must conduct a right to work check to ensure that they are legally permitted to work in the UK.

• Manual Right to Work Check: Verify original documents such as the worker’s passport and visa.
• Online Right to Work Check: Use the UK government’s online system to verify eVisa holders.

For more details, refer to the right to work check guide.

Post-Hiring Responsibilities and Compliance

Hiring biological scientists from overseas involves ongoing compliance with UK immigration laws to maintain your sponsor licence.

1. Record-Keeping and Reporting

• Record-Keeping: Keep detailed records of the worker’s employment, salary, and contact information.
• Reporting Changes: Report any significant changes to the worker’s role or employment status, such as promotions or salary adjustments, through the Sponsor Management System (SMS).

2. Sponsor Licence Duties and Compliance

Failure to comply with your sponsor licence duties could result in penalties or sponsor licence revocation, impacting your ability to sponsor workers in the future.

How Borderless Can Help with Sponsoring Biological Scientists

Sponsoring biological scientists under SOC Code 2112 can be a complex process, but Borderless simplifies it by offering comprehensive support throughout the sponsorship journey.

End-to-End Sponsorship Support

Borderless can help with:

• Sponsor Licence Application: Assisting with the accurate submission of documents and forms.
• Certificate of Sponsorship Assignment: Streamlining the CoS assignment process.
• Compliance Management: Helping you remain compliant with Home Office regulations to avoid penalties.

If you need guidance or support in sponsoring biological scientists, get in touch for personalised assistance.

Conclusion

Hiring and sponsoring biological scientists under SOC Code 2112 is essential for companies in the scientific and environmental sectors. By following the steps outlined in this guide, your business can navigate the sponsorship process smoothly and stay compliant with UK immigration laws.

For further support with managing your sponsorship duties, Borderless offers full guidance and assistance. Contact us for expert advice and to streamline your hiring process.