26th June 2024

A guide on how to get visa sponsorship to teach in the UK

The UK’s world-renowned education system offers exciting opportunities for those seeking to build a rewarding teaching career. However, obtaining a visa sponsorship can seem daunting for international candidates. This guide breaks down the process, providing insights to successfully secure the necessary sponsorship and make your dream of teaching in the UK a reality. 

Understand the visa requirements

To fulfil the visa requirements to teach in the UK, all international candidates must possess a valid work visa. Overseas trained teachers (OTTs) will need to have a fully recognised teaching qualification from their country of origin, and, in some cases, registration with the relevant teaching body there. In addition to meeting the visa criteria, OTTs must ensure their teaching credentials are accepted and transferable to the UK education system.

As a non-UK citizen, you will also need to have a visa or immigration status that allows you to work in the UK. The main visa route for non-UK citizens wishing to teach in England is the skilled worker visa. As teaching jobs are not listed on the Immigration Salary List, it means that all teachers who have a skilled working visa will meet the salary threshold as long as they are being paid according to the teacher pay scale for England.

The UK government also offers an attractive visa support and relocation scheme for those who receive a teaching job offer from an approved education provider. More specifically, if you’re interested in teaching in-demand subjects like languages or physics in England, you may be eligible for an International Relocation Payment worth £10,000. This payment aims to incentivise talented teachers globally to bring their skills to the UK classroom. 

But to be eligible for either of these, teachers do not need to have QTS but will need a teaching qualification with a specialism in languages or science, as well as physics in their teaching timetable.

Research the UK education system

Before applying for any jobs, it’s beneficial to understand how the UK education system works as this will not only help you prepare for interviews but also ensure a smoother transition once you start teaching. This will also help you identify the types of schools (e.g., state-funded, independent, academies) and the range of teaching positions available. 

Try to get an understanding of the qualifications and experience required for each role you’re interested in. Your research should cover factors like the national curriculum, teaching ethos, assessment methods, and the day-to-day responsibilities of teachers in different school environments. Based on your findings and your own background, you can then make an informed decision about the subjects and age groups you’re best suited to teach. 

Interviewing with UK schools can also be an informative process that allows teachers to learn more about UK-based schools and to determine if the school is a good fit for them. That’s why we offer a “virtual iday” – a programme that allows international teachers to interview with UK schools from anywhere in the world. This virtual recruiting event provides a convenient platform to learn about schools, discuss roles face-to-face with hiring staff, and secure job offers – all without the need for travel. The streamlined process connects global teaching talent with ideal positions.

Preparing for the application

Preparing a strong application is crucial for securing a teaching position and visa sponsorship in the UK. Once you have identified the school you like, you should tailor your CV to highlight your qualifications and experience relevant to the UK education system. Emphasise any international teaching experience, proficiency in English, and familiarity with the UK curriculum. Additionally, prepare thoroughly for interviews by understanding the specific requirements of the schools you’re applying to and practising common interview questions. You should also highlight your adaptability, cultural awareness, and commitment to professional development. A well-prepared application will make a strong impression on potential employers and increase your chances of receiving a job offer and sponsorship.

Obtaining the visa itself once successfully applied

Once you have successfully secured a teaching position, you’ll receive a formal job offer and contract. After signing the contract and completing all necessary background checks, your employer will issue you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). With this document, you can then initiate the Skilled Worker visa application process. Be prepared to submit the required documents, pay the visa fees, and potentially attend a visa biometrics appointment in your home country. 

The visa processing time can take several weeks, so it’s very important to start the application well in advance of your intended start date at the school. Once approved, the Skilled Worker visa will allow you to legally live and work as a teacher in the UK.

Want to find out more? We’re committed to supporting tutors like you in your educational journey overseas. Explore our job opportunities or take a look at our overseas teaching guide before you take the first step towards a rewarding and fulfilling career over in the UK.