If you are a teacher in Nigeria looking to work in the UK, the UK Skilled Worker Visa is a legal permit that allows you to live and work even as a teacher in the UK.
In this guide, we will explain the eligibility, the step-by-step process to apply for a UK work visa, and how to increase your chances of getting a teaching job in the UK with sponsorship.
Requirements for Nigerian teachers to work in UK?
Before applying for a visa to work in the UK, you must meet certain requirements.
The UK government has set specific eligibility criteria to ensure that international teachers are qualified for teaching roles.
1. Academic qualifications
- A Bachelor’s in Education (B.Ed.) or a related degree.
- Postgraduate Degree in Education (PGDE) — if your degree is not in education.
- TRCN certificate.
2. Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
QTS is required to teach in UK government-funded schools.
And you can apply for QTS with:
- Your TRCN certificate.
- At least 1 year of teaching experience.
- Proof of proficiency in English.
📌 If you don’t qualify for QTS immediately, you can apply for a PGCE with QTS in the UK.
3. Work experience
Minimum of (1) year teaching experience, especially in a high-demand subjects like Maths, Physics, etc. can improve job prospects
4. English language proficiency
You will need to prove your proficiency by taking an IELTS for UKVI test.
The required score is usually:
IELTS Academic – 6.5 overall (with no section below 5.5)
5. Job offer from a UK school
To get a UK work visa as a teacher, you must secure a teaching job from a UK school that is licensed to sponsor international teachers.
How to apply for UK Skilled Worker Visa as a Nigerian teacher?
Remember.
The UK Skilled Worker Visa allows you (as a Nigerian teacher) to legally work in the UK.
And here’s how to apply.
1. Find a teaching job with Visa sponsorship
Search for UK schools hiring international teachers using portals like GOV.UK Teaching Vacancies, Tes Jobs or see our regular posts on UK TEACHING JOBS FOR FOREIGNERS.
Schools experiencing teacher shortages are more likely to offer visa sponsorship.
Always confirm that the school is a licensed visa sponsor before completing their application form.
📌 Licensed schools always have “Visa can be sponsored” attached to their vacancy post.
2. Get a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS)
Once you receive a job offer, your employer will provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS).
This document contains:
- Employer details.
- Job role and salary.
- Your sponsorship reference number.
📌 Ensure that your salary meets the UK visa requirements of about £30,000+ per year for teachers.
3. Apply for UK Skilled Worker Visa
Once you have a COS, you can apply for a UK work visa online via the UK Home Office website.
Documents required for UK Skilled Worker Visa
- Valid Nigerian passport.
- Certificate of Sponsorship (COS).
- Proof of QTS.
- IELTS certificate.
- Criminal record check.
- Tuberculosis test results.
📌 Application Fee: £610 – £1,408
📌 Processing Time: 3–8 weeks
4. Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) grants you access NHS healthcare in the UK.
The fee is about £624 per year.
5. Attend biometric appointment
Submit fingerprints and a passport photo at a UK visa center in Nigeria and receive a decision within 3–8 weeks.
📌 Apply early, as visa processing times can vary.
6. Move to UK and start teaching
Once your UK work visa is approved, you can move to the UK and begin your teaching career!
NEXT STEPS:
- TOP UK SCHOOLS OFFERING VISA SPONSORSHIP
GOOD LUCK.
Do you have something to say about this post on UK Skilled Worker Visa? Comment below and get a reply soon!
Leave a Reply