Hiring and Sponsoring Architects (SOC Code 2451)

Architects, classified under SOC Code 2451, are key professionals in the construction and design industry, responsible for creating innovative and functional building designs that meet client needs and regulatory requirements. Their role encompasses a variety of critical tasks including:

• Client Liaison: Engaging with clients and other professionals to establish necessary parameters such as building type, style, cost limitations, and landscaping requirements.
• Site Analysis: Assessing site conditions and characteristics, including factors like drainage, topsoil, trees, and rock formations, to inform design decisions.
• Development Advisory: Analyzing site surveys to provide clients with detailed guidance on development and construction details, ensuring that designs integrate seamlessly with their surroundings.
• Technical Drafting: Preparing detailed scale drawings and specifications for design and construction, and submitting these documents for planning approval.
• Construction Oversight: Monitoring ongoing construction work to ensure compliance with all specifications and standards.

With the UK's robust architecture sector, the demand for talented architects continues to increase, prompting many firms to look for skilled professionals both domestically and internationally. This guide will aid HR professionals in navigating the process of hiring and sponsoring architects under the UK’s immigration system.

What is SOC Code 3411 for Architects?

SOC Code 2451 refers to architects who design buildings and other structures while ensuring they meet client needs and regulatory standards. Their responsibilities can include:

• Client Liaison: Communicating with clients and other professionals to establish building type, style, cost limitations, and landscaping requirements.
• Site Analysis: Studying the conditions and characteristics of the site, including drainage, topsoil, trees, rock formations, etc.
• Development Advice: Analyzing site surveys and advising clients on development and construction details, ensuring the proposed design blends with the surrounding area.
• Drawing Preparation: Preparing detailed scale drawings and specifications for design and construction, and submitting these for planning approval.
• Construction Monitoring: Overseeing construction work in progress to ensure compliance with specifications and design intents.

Architects play a vital role in shaping the built environment, contributing to urban planning, sustainability, and community development.

Eligibility to Hire Architects (SOC Code 3411)

1. Job Requirements

Architects must possess a blend of technical knowledge, creativity, and interpersonal skills. Candidates seeking to work in this role should meet the following qualifications and criteria:

• Educational Background: A degree in architecture or a related field is typically required. Advanced degrees may enhance prospects.
• Licensure: Must be licensed to practice as an architect in the relevant jurisdiction, including passing necessary examinations.
• Portfolio of Work: A comprehensive collection of completed architectural designs and projects showcasing innovation, technical proficiency, and a variety of styles.
• Experience: Demonstrated professional experience in architectural design, project management, and liaising with clients and construction teams.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in architectural design software (such as AutoCAD, Revit, or similar programs) and a strong understanding of building codes and regulations.
• Communication Skills: Ability to effectively communicate architectural concepts and technical details to clients, stakeholders, and construction teams.
• Problem-Solving Abilities: Strong analytical skills for assessing site conditions, overcoming challenges, and advising on development details to ensure project success.

Ensure that the job description aligns with SOC Code 2451 and that the architect’s experience and work adhere to the expectations for the role.

1. Salary Thresholds
2. Use the Minimum Salary Calculator to ensure your salary offer meets immigration requirements.

Sponsoring Architects: A Step-by-Step Guide for HR Professionals

Once you’ve confirmed that the role and candidate meet the eligibility requirements, follow this step-by-step guide to sponsoring Architects under SOC Code 2451.

Step 1: Obtain a Sponsor Licence

Before hiring non-UK Architects, your company or institution must obtain a sponsor licence. This licence enables you to legally sponsor overseas Architects under the Skilled Worker Visa program.

• Sponsor Licence Application: Submit documentation proving that your business is legitimate and has a genuine vacancy. Visit the sponsor licence application guide for more information. 
• Sponsor Licence Fees: Small businesses typically pay £574, while larger institutions pay £1,579. For more information, visit the sponsor licence fees guide. 
• Processing Time: Applications typically take up to 8 weeks, but using the Sponsor Licence Priority Service can reduce the processing time to 10 working days.

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

Step 2: Assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Once you have your sponsor licence, the next step is to assign a CoS to the Architects. This document provides key details about the job and the individual being sponsored.

• Defined vs Undefined CoS: Use a Defined CoS for Architects applying from outside the UK, and an Undefined CoS for those already in the UK. Learn more in the Defined & Undefined Certificates of Sponsorship guide. 
• Required Documents: Provide details such as the Architects’s portfolio, passport and job offer. Refer to Documents Required for Certificate of Sponsorship for a full list of necessary documents.

Step 3: Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa

Once the CoS is issued, the Architects can apply for the Skilled Worker Visa.

• Visa Fees: Fees vary depending on the role and visa length—use the visa fees calculator to estimate the costs. 
• Immigration Skills Charge: Employers are required to pay this charge as part of sponsoring non-UK workers. This is separate from visa fees.

Conducting a Right to Work Check for Architects

Before the Architects begins working, you must conduct a right to work check to ensure they are legally allowed to work in the UK.

• Manual Right to Work Check: Verify original documents such as the Architects’s passport and visa. 
• Online Right to Work Check: If the Architects holds an eVisa, you can use the UK government’s online system to verify their right-to-work status.

For more details on how to perform these checks, see the right to work check guide.

Post-Hiring Responsibilities and Compliance

1. Record-Keeping and Reporting  
2. • Record-Keeping: Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of the Architects’s employment details, salary and contact information. 
   • Reporting Changes: Report any significant changes to the Architects’s role—such as promotions or salary increases—via the Sponsor Management System (SMS).
3. Sponsor Licence Duties and Compliance
4. Failure to comply with your sponsor licence duties can result in penalties or sponsor licence revocation, impacting your ability to sponsor future Architectss.

How Borderless Can Help with Sponsoring Architects

Sponsoring Architects under SOC Code 2451 can be a complex process, but Borderless can simplify it for you. We offer comprehensive support to help you manage the entire sponsorship process.

End-to-End Sponsorship Support

At Borderless, we assist with:

• Sponsor Licence Application: Guiding you through the application process and ensuring all required documents are submitted correctly. 
• Certificate of Sponsorship Assignment: Streamlining the CoS process to make hiring easier. 
• Compliance Management: Helping you stay compliant with immigration laws to avoid penalties.

If you need assistance with hiring or sponsoring Architects, get in touch for personalised support.

Conclusion

Hiring and sponsoring Architects under SOC Code 2451 can be a rewarding way to enrich the cultural landscape of your organisation. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully navigate the sponsorship process while ensuring compliance with UK immigration laws.

For further guidance, Borderless is ready to assist you with all your sponsorship needs. Contact us for expert advice.