Teacher Visa Route

Eligibility requirements

• 1Teaching qualification equivalent to UK QTS (for state-maintained schools)
• 2Job offer from a UK-licensed Skilled Worker sponsor (school or academy)
• 3Minimum salary meeting national pay scales (currently from £31,650 outside London)
• 4DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) enhanced check — arranged by the school
• 5English language proficiency at B1 CEFR
• 6No prohibition order from the Teaching Regulation Agency

Document checklist

• Valid passport
• Certificate of Sponsorship from employing school
• Teaching qualification and transcripts
• QTS certificate or evidence of QTS application via the overseas-trained teacher route
• English language test results
• TB test certificate (if applicable)
• Bank statements or maintenance certification

Step-by-step process

1. 1

   Apply for QTS through the Teaching Regulation Agency overseas-trained teacher route (if teaching in state schools)

2. 2

   Search for teaching roles on Teaching Vacancies or through recruitment agencies

3. 3

   Attend interviews and receive a conditional job offer

4. 4

   School issues Certificate of Sponsorship once DBS and qualification checks clear

5. 5

   Apply for Skilled Worker visa online and pay fees

6. 6

   Attend biometrics appointment

7. 7

   Arrive in the UK and begin employment