Steps to Come to the UK as an International Social Worker

Steps to Come to the UK as an International Social Worker

Your complete roadmap from application to arrival.

Moving to the UK to work as a social worker can feel like a maze — so many forms, agencies, and rules to navigate. As someone who’s been through it (and now helps others do the same), I’ve broken the process down into clear, manageable steps. Follow these, and you’ll go from thinking about it to boarding your flight with confidence.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before you do anything else, make sure you meet the basic requirements:

Social Work Qualification – You must hold a recognised social work degree or diploma.

Experience – Most UK employers expect at least 1–2 years of post-qualification experience (some roles may require more).

English Language – You’ll need to prove your English proficiency, usually via IELTS Academic. However, they sometimes allow waiver if your degree was taught in English in a recognised country.

Step 2: Apply for Social Work England Registration

This is your licence to practice in the UK. Without it, you can’t work as a social worker.

Create an account on the Social Work England website.

Submit your qualification documents, transcripts, and work references.

Provide proof of identity and English language competence.

Pay the application fee.

⚠️ Tip: This step can take up to 60 working days, so start early.

Step 3: Find a Sponsoring Employer

To work in the UK, you’ll need a job offer from an employer who can sponsor your Skilled Worker visa.

Look for roles advertised as “Visa sponsorship available.”

Popular recruiters and local authorities regularly hire from abroad, some even conduct interviews in your home country or online.

Be ready for competency-based interviews, where you’ll give examples of your practice.

Step 4: Secure Your Job Offer & Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Once you’ve been offered a job:

Your employer will apply for your Certificate of Sponsorship — this is an electronic document confirming your role, salary, and visa eligibility.

You’ll need the CoS number for your visa application.

Step 5: Apply for Your Skilled Worker Visa

You can now apply online for your visa via the UK Government website.

You’ll need:

Your CoS number

Passport

Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate (for certain countries)

Proof of English (IELTSresults or exemption)

Proof of funds (unless your employer certifies maintenance on your CoS)

Application fee + Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) - Sometimes employers pay for this too

Processing times are usually 3–8 weeks.

Step 6: Plan Your Relocation

While waiting for your visa, prepare for life in the UK:

Accommodation – Some employers offer temporary housing; others may assist in finding rentals.

Finance – Open a UK bank account (some allow you to apply before arrival).

Packing – Remember the UK weather is unpredictable — bring layers!

Step 7: Arrive & Settle In

Once you arrive in the UK:

Collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) within 10 days.

Attend your employer’s induction and safeguarding training.

Familiarise yourself with local policies, community resources, and your team.

Final Advice

The process may feel overwhelming at first, but remember:

Start with registration and job search in parallel.

Keep copies of all your documents (scanned and physical).

Network with other international social workers - they’re an invaluable source of tips and moral support.

Moving countries for your career is a big step, but for many, it’s life-changing. If you have the skills, passion, and commitment, the UK offers not just a job, but a chance to make a lasting difference in children’s lives while building a secure future for yourself.