Questions people in the UK ask us
Short answers to what we hear most from people in the UK. The visa guides go into the detail.
Can anyone apply, or only people in the UK?
Anyone can apply. We write for people in the UK, but the jobs are open to every nationality, as long as your skills and experience match the role.
What does employer-sponsored mean?
The employer supports your work visa: the Skills in Demand visa in Australia, or the Accredited Employer Work Visa in New Zealand. Either way, the employer has to follow government rules on pay and conditions.
Do I need an English test if I have a UK passport?
Often not. For many Australian work visas a current UK passport counts as meeting the English language requirement. Some employers and registration bodies set their own English rules, and some New Zealand roles ask for English evidence, so read the job ad and the visa guide.
Will my NVQ, SVQ or City & Guilds qualification be recognised?
It helps, but expect your trade to be assessed again. Some Australian occupations need a skills assessment, often through VETASSESS or Trades Recognition Australia, and some trades, such as electrical and plumbing work, also need a state licence. In New Zealand some trades need occupational registration. The visa guides explain when each applies.
I am a nurse registered in the UK. Can I work as a nurse straight away?
Your UK registration does not carry over automatically. You register with the nursing regulator in Australia or New Zealand before you can practise there, and the job ad says what the employer needs.
Which police certificate will I need?
When a UK police certificate is requested, you get it from ACRO Criminal Records Office. If you have lived in other countries for long enough, you may need certificates from them too; the visa guides explain the rules.
Do my documents need translating?
Rarely. UK documents are already in English. You may still be asked for certified copies, and anything in another language needs an English translation.
Is a working holiday visa an option?
For some people, yes. UK citizens can look at working holiday visas for Australia and New Zealand up to an age limit. They are a different route from the sponsored jobs on this site, and each government’s website sets out the conditions.
How soon could I be working abroad?
It varies. The country, your occupation, any skills assessment or registration, and how quickly your documents come together all play a part. The visa guides list the current official processing times.
Can my family come with me?
Usually. Both visas have options for partners and dependent children, under whatever rules apply when you lodge.
Do I have to pay anything to apply?
No. There is no fee to apply for a job on this site. If anyone asks you for money in return for a job offer or a visa, do not pay: paying for a job or for sponsorship is against the rules in Australia and New Zealand and can get your visa refused.
How do I apply?
Open the job and press "Apply by email", or use "Ask on WhatsApp" if you have a question first. Attach your CV and your certificates or registration details.