Teaching Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship (QTS & Non-QTS) 

Dreaming of teaching in the UK? You’re not alone. Thousands of qualified teachers across Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America are exploring how to land teaching jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship—whether they hold a QTS (Qualified Teacher Status) or not.

But let’s be honest: figuring out the requirements, the immigration process, and where to apply can feel overwhelming.

Do you need QTS? Can schools sponsor your visa? What subjects are in demand? And perhaps most importantly, how do you actually get hired?

This in-depth, step-by-step guide answers all of that and more. Whether you’re a certified teacher with years of experience or a recent graduate passionate about education, this article is your roadmap to teaching in the UK in 2025.

Let’s get started.

Why This Topic Matters: The UK Needs You

The UK Is Experiencing a Major Teacher Shortage

Across the UK—especially in England—schools are in urgent need of teachers. The Department for Education recently revealed that teacher recruitment goals have been missed for the second year in a row, particularly in secondary education subjects like maths, science, computer science, and modern foreign languages.

In some parts of the country, schools are operating with as many as 1 in 5 teaching posts unfilled.

That’s not just a staffing issue; it’s an opportunity for qualified international teachers like you.

Visa Rules Have Been Loosened for Overseas Talent

Since Brexit, the UK has increasingly relied on non-EU workers to fill labor shortages, including in education. The Skilled Worker visa, combined with new incentives like the International Relocation Payment (IRP), makes it easier than ever for foreign teachers to secure legal employment in the UK.

So, if you’re wondering, can I move to the UK to teach even without QTS? The answer is yes—depending on the route you take.

Types of Teaching Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship (QTS & Non-QTS)

Whether you’re qualified in your home country or looking to enter through training programs, there are options.

Here’s a breakdown of the most in-demand roles and whether QTS is required.

1. Maths Teachers (High Priority)

• Salary Range: £28,000 – £45,000 outside London, up to £52,000 in inner London
• Visa Sponsorship: Commonly offered by state-funded secondary schools and academies
• Special Note: Maths is listed on the Shortage Occupation List, which makes visa processing smoother and more cost-effective

2. Science Teachers (Especially Physics)

• Salary Range: £29,000 – £50,000 depending on experience and location
• Subjects in Demand: Physics, Chemistry, Biology
• Visa Sponsorship: Widely available, especially in large academy chains and STEM-focused schools
• Extra Benefit: You may qualify for the £10,000 International Relocation Payment

3. Computer Science / ICT Teachers

• Salary Range: £30,000 – £51,000/year
• QTS Needed?: Preferred, but not always required for academies or independent schools
• Relevance: As digital education ramps up, so does the need for qualified tech-savvy educators

4. Special Educational Needs (SEN) Teachers

• Salary Range: £30,000 – £55,000/year (plus SEN allowances of £2,539–£4,242)
• Visa Sponsorship: Offered by specialist SEN schools, trusts, and state academies
• Demand Driver: An increase in SEN diagnoses and personalized learning plans across the UK

5. Primary School Teachers

• Salary Range: £26,000 – £44,000/year (higher in London)
• QTS Requirement: Typically required, but School Direct salaried programs may offer a training + salary combination without prior QTS
• Visa Friendly?: Yes, if you secure sponsorship via a trust or government-approved training provider

Key Benefits of Teaching in the UK as an International Teacher

Why should you consider relocating to the UK to teach? The benefits go beyond just salary.

1. Competitive Pay + London Weighting

Teachers in London receive an additional salary “weighting” to help offset higher living costs. Inner London salaries can exceed £52,000/year for experienced professionals.

2. Clear Route to Settlement

The Skilled Worker visa allows you to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years—paving the way for permanent residency and even UK citizenship.

3. Bring Your Family

Most teaching visa routes allow you to bring dependents (spouse and children) with you. Children can attend UK schools for free.

4. £10,000 International Relocation Payment

This tax-free grant helps cover moving expenses for teachers in maths, physics, chemistry, and computer science subjects—no repayment required.

5. Global Recognition of Experience

UK teaching experience is highly respected worldwide and may open doors to future roles in Europe, the Middle East, or North America.

Challenges You May Face (And How to Overcome Them)

Every opportunity comes with a few obstacles. Here’s what to watch out for—and how to prepare.

QTS Confusion

The Myth: “You must have QTS to teach in the UK.”
The Truth: While QTS is essential in many public schools, you can work without it in private, independent, and free schools or while enrolled in a salaried teacher training program.

Tip: If you’re experienced, apply for QTS through the Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA). This process is now open to teachers from over 130 countries.

Sponsorship Limitations

Not all schools are licensed to sponsor foreign workers.

Cultural Adjustment

Different curriculum, classroom behavior norms, and teaching methods can be a challenge.

Tip: Watch UK classroom videos on YouTube, and join international teacher groups on Facebook and LinkedIn to build familiarity and support.

Best Places to Teach in the UK (Region-Specific Insights)

Location can influence your pay, cost of living, and visa options. Here’s where international teachers are in highest demand:

London

• Pros: Highest salaries, massive teacher demand, many schools offer sponsorship
• Cons: High cost of living (especially rent)

Manchester & Birmingham

• Pros: Lower living costs, strong demand in STEM and English subjects, diverse school systems
• Cons: Competition for popular roles can still be strong

South West England (Devon, Cornwall, Bristol)

• Pros: Relaxed lifestyle, beautiful landscapes, growing need for teachers in rural communities
• Cons: Fewer international sponsorships available—but growing

Scotland & Wales

• Scotland: Uses its own teaching qualification system (GTCS registration required)
• Wales: Still operates under UK visa rules, but fewer open sponsorships overall

How to Apply for Teaching Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship: 

Ready to leap? Follow this roadmap to move from research to relocation.

Step 1: Determine Your QTS Eligibility

• Check eligibility
• Apply through TRA if you’re qualified and experienced (no UK visit required)

Step 2: Search for Visa-Sponsoring Jobs

Use trusted job boards that allow filtering for visa sponsorship:

K-Standard CV & Cover Letter

• Highlight your subject expertise, years of experience, and curriculum knowledge
• Mention UK-specific knowledge (GCSE, A-levels, Ofsted familiarity)

Step 4: Prepare for the Interview Process

• Interviews may be virtual
• Be prepared for demo lessons and safeguarding questions
• Expect scenario-based questions related to behavior management

Step 5: Get Your Visa Sponsored

Once hired:

• Your school will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
• You apply for a Skilled Worker Visa
• Processing time: 3–8 weeks
• Fees: £610–£1,408 + Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035/year)

FAQs: 

1. Can I teach in the UK without QTS?

Yes. Many schools—including private and free schools—hire non-QTS teachers. You can also earn QTS while teaching via salaried training programs.

2. What is the minimum salary required for visa eligibility?ility?
As of 2025, the minimum salary for visa-sponsored teaching roles is £23,200/year, but most teaching salaries start well above that.

3. Do I need to take an English test?

Yes, unless you’re from an English-speaking country. Accepted tests include IELTS for UKVI or PTE Academic.

4. What is the International Relocation Payment (IRP)?

It’s a one-time, tax-free £10,000 payment for eligible teachers in shortage subjects like maths, physics, chemistry, and computer science.

5. Can I bring my family on a Skilled Worker visa?

Yes. Spouses can work full-time, and children can attend school free of charge.

6. How long is the visa valid?

Typically 3–5 years, with a pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years.

Conclusion: 

Let’s be real: teaching abroad can feel intimidating. New systems, legal paperwork, unfamiliar processes—it’s a lot.

But here’s the thing: The UK needs skilled teachers. You have the passion and experience. The pathway now exists.

Whether you’re QTS-certified or just beginning your journey, there’s an opportunity in the UK classroom with your name on it.

So take the next step. Explore your eligibility. Start applying. Connect with recruiters.
Because your international teaching career in the UK isn’t just a dream—it’s a decision away.