Hiring and Sponsoring Graphic and Multimedia Designers (SOC Code 2142)

Graphic and multimedia designers, categorized under SOC Code 2142, are essential to the creative and digital industries. Their work encompasses creating visually compelling designs, multimedia content, and digital experiences that communicate messages and engage audiences. With the growing demand for creative content in advertising, digital media, and brand management, UK businesses are increasingly looking to recruit skilled graphic and multimedia designers from overseas. This guide will help HR professionals navigate the process of hiring and sponsoring graphic and multimedia designers under the UK’s immigration system.

What is SOC Code 2142 for Graphic and Multimedia Designers?

SOC Code 2142 refers to professionals who design graphics, visual elements, and multimedia content across various platforms. Their responsibilities include:

• Creating visual designs: Developing logos, branding elements, infographics, and advertisements.
• Designing multimedia content: Producing animations, interactive content, and videos for digital and print media.
• Collaborating with marketing teams: Working with marketing professionals to design materials that align with brand messaging.
• Using design software: Proficiency in tools like Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and After Effects.
• Presenting design concepts: Developing and presenting creative ideas to clients or project leads.

Graphic and multimedia designers are integral to a company’s brand presence, helping businesses communicate effectively with their target audiences.

Eligibility to Hire Graphic and Multimedia Designers (SOC Code 2142)

If you are hiring graphic and multimedia designers from outside the UK, you need to meet the specific requirements set by the Skilled Worker Visa program.

1. Job Requirements

Graphic and multimedia designers must meet certain qualifications and experience requirements to be eligible for sponsorship. These may include:

• Professional experience: Proven experience in graphic design, multimedia production, or a related field.
• Skills: Proficiency in industry-standard design software and tools.
• Portfolio: A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a range of creative work, including digital, print, and multimedia projects.
• Education: A degree or diploma in graphic design, multimedia design, or related fields is often advantageous.

Ensure the job description aligns with SOC Code 2142 and that the candidate's qualifications meet the expectations of the role.

2. Salary Thresholds

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

Since graphic and multimedia designers are listed on the Immigration Salary List, the salary threshold is reduced to 80% of the usual minimum, meaning the required salary is £20,960 per year.

Use the Minimum Salary Calculator to ensure your salary offer complies with immigration regulations.

3. Immigration Salary List

Graphic and multimedia designers are on the Immigration Salary List, which makes it easier for employers to sponsor workers. The benefits include:

• Lower salary thresholds: Reduced to 80% of the usual minimum.
• Reduced visa fees: Designers on the Immigration Salary List may also benefit from reduced visa fees.

For more details, refer to the immigration salary list.

Sponsoring Graphic and Multimedia Designers: A Step-by-Step Guide for HR Professionals

Once you’ve determined the eligibility of the role and candidate, follow these steps to sponsor graphic and multimedia designers under SOC Code 2142.

Step 1: Obtain a Sponsor Licence

Before hiring non-UK designers, your company 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 documentation proving that your business is legitimate and has a genuine vacancy. For more details, refer to the sponsor licence application guide.
• Sponsor Licence Fees: Fees vary depending on the size of your business. Small companies typically pay £536, while larger organisations pay £1,476. For a detailed breakdown of costs, visit the sponsor licence fees guide.
• Processing Time: Sponsor licence applications generally take up to 8 weeks. The Sponsor Licence Priority Service can expedite this process to around 10 working days.

Once your sponsor licence is approved, you will receive a sponsor licence number, enabling you to assign Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) to prospective hires.

Step 2: Assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

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

• Defined vs Undefined CoS: You will need to assign a Defined CoS for candidates applying from outside the UK and an Undefined CoS for those already residing in the UK. For more details on these distinctions, refer to the Defined & Undefined Certificates of Sponsorship guide.
• Required Documents: You will need to submit documents such as the designer’s portfolio, passport information, and job offer details. For a full list of required documents, see Documents Required for Certificate of Sponsorship.

Step 3: Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa

Once the Certificate of Sponsorship is issued, the candidate can apply for the Skilled Worker Visa.

• Visa Fees: Fees vary depending on the role and the length of employment. You can estimate the costs using the visa fees calculator.
• Immigration Skills Charge: As an employer, you must pay the Immigration Skills Charge, which is separate from the visa fees.

Conducting a Right to Work Check for Graphic and Multimedia Designers

Before the designer begins work, employers must conduct a right to work check to ensure the individual is legally allowed 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: If the designer holds an eVisa, use the UK government’s online system to verify their work eligibility.

For more information on conducting these checks, refer to the right to work check guide.

Post-Hiring Responsibilities and Compliance

Once you’ve hired a graphic or multimedia designer, maintaining compliance with UK immigration laws is crucial.

1. Record-Keeping and Reporting

• Record-Keeping: Keep accurate records of the worker’s employment, salary, and contact information.
• Reporting Changes: Any significant changes in the worker’s employment status (e.g., promotions, salary adjustments) must be reported via the Sponsor Management System (SMS).

2. Sponsor Licence Duties and Compliance

Failure to comply with your sponsor licence duties can result in penalties or sponsor licence revocation, which can impact your ability to hire overseas workers in the future.

How Borderless Can Help with Sponsoring Graphic and Multimedia Designers

Sponsoring graphic and multimedia designers under SOC Code 2142 can be a detailed process, but Borderless simplifies it by offering comprehensive support throughout the sponsorship journey.

End-to-End Sponsorship Support

Borderless can assist with:

• Sponsor Licence Application: Helping you submit all necessary documentation correctly and on time.
• Certificate of Sponsorship Assignment: Streamlining the CoS process to facilitate efficient hiring.
• Compliance Management: Ensuring you remain compliant with Home Office regulations to avoid penalties.

If you need assistance with hiring or sponsoring graphic and multimedia designers, get in touch for personalised guidance.

Conclusion

Hiring and sponsoring graphic and multimedia designers under SOC Code 2142 is essential for businesses looking to elevate their creative output and brand presence. By following the steps outlined in this guide, your company can successfully navigate the sponsorship process and ensure compliance with UK immigration laws.

For more information and expert advice on managing your sponsorship duties, Borderless is ready to support you. Contact us to get started with your hiring process.