Work · Will my overseas qualifications count in the UK?
Getting your overseas qualifications recognised.
Last verified: 1 November 2026· Based on UK ENIC (managed by Ecctis for the UK government), NMC, HCPC· Next review 1 February 2027
Quick answer
UK ENIC is the official organisation for comparing international qualifications with UK levels. Its Statement of Comparability can help employers and universities understand your qualification. For regulated jobs such as nursing, you also need to register with that profession's regulator.
Applies to: UK-wide
Who this is for
- Anyone with qualifications from outside the UK who wants employers or colleges to understand their level.
- Not every employer asks for a Statement of Comparability — check the job advert or ask the employer before paying for one.
- Regulated professions (for example nurses, midwives, many health professions) have their own registration process.
Rules can depend on your own situation. If you are unsure, check the official page below before acting.
Step by step
- 1
Check whether your job is regulated
If you want to work as a nurse, midwife or health professional, start with the regulator — registration is required to practise.
- 2
Ask what the employer or college needs
Some accept your original certificates; others ask for a UK ENIC statement.
- 3
Apply to UK ENIC if needed
Use the official UK ENIC website for a Statement of Comparability. Check the current fee and processing time on their site.
- 4
Show it on your CV
Write the UK equivalent next to your qualification, for example 'comparable to a UK Bachelor's degree', once confirmed.
If something goes wrong
A website offers 'fast-track UK certificates' or 'UK equivalence' cheaply
What to do: Use only the official UK ENIC website (enic.org.uk) or the regulator for your profession.
Your qualification is not recognised for a regulated job
What to do: Contact the regulator for your profession about routes such as further assessment or training.
Official links
When you are ready to apply or check the detail, use these official services. Each opens in a new tab.
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Where this comes from
Based on UK ENIC (managed by Ecctis for the UK government), NMC, HCPC. Last verified 1 November 2026; next review 1 February 2027.
MyAgumba explains official guidance in plain English. It is not legal, immigration or medical advice, and MyAgumba is not part of, or endorsed by, the government or the NHS. Always confirm the detail on the official page before acting.