UK ENIC, formerly known as UK NARIC, is the designated national agency responsible for assessing and recognising international qualifications in the United Kingdom. If you’re planning to work, study, or migrate to the UK, understanding how UK ENIC validates foreign qualifications is essential for smooth integration into the education system and job market.
What Is UK ENIC?
UK ENIC operates under contract with the UK Government to provide advice and information on international qualifications. The service helps individuals, employers, universities, and professional bodies determine how overseas qualifications compare to the UK education framework.
Ecctis Limited manages UK ENIC and is part of the UK’s efforts to uphold educational standards, especially in skilled migration routes like the Skilled Worker Visa or Health and Care Worker Visa.
Visit the UK ENIC official website
Table of Contents
Why Use UK ENIC Services?
- For Visa Applications: Required by the Home Office to confirm qualification equivalence.
- For Employers: To verify overseas qualifications during hiring.
- For Universities: To assess eligibility for academic programs.
- For Professional Bodies: To determine if international credentials meet UK standards.
Types of UK ENIC Statements
UK ENIC offers several key services:
1. Statement of Comparability
This official document confirms the UK academic level of your overseas qualification. It is widely accepted by employers, universities, and immigration authorities.
2. English Language Proficiency Assessment (ELPA)
Used to verify whether the medium of instruction for your qualification was in English. Often requested for visa applications under the Skilled Worker and Health and Care visa routes.
3. Visas and Nationality Service
Tailored for UK Home Office visa applications, especially for:
- Skilled Worker Visa
- Health and Care Worker Visa
- Innovator and Start-Up Visas
It combines the Statement of Comparability with confirmation of English proficiency if required.
How to Apply for a UK ENIC Statement
- Register online on the Ecctis/UK ENIC portal
- Choose the required service (e.g., Statement of Comparability, Visas and Nationality)
- Upload required documents:
- Scans of qualification certificates and transcripts
- Certified English translations (if not originally in English)
- Medium of Instruction letter (for English assessment)
- Passport or ID
- Make payment via card
- Receive your statement electronically and by post (optional)
Apply via the official UK ENIC portal
Processing Time and Costs
- Standard Service: ~10 working days after receiving all documentation
- Fast Track Service: 24-48 hours (at an additional cost)
Fees (2025 rates):
- Statement of Comparability: £49.50
- Visas and Nationality Service: £140
- ELPA: £50
- Delivery: Optional physical copy delivery starts at £10
UK ENIC and UK Immigration
For immigration purposes, especially under the Skilled Worker and Health and Care Worker Visas, a UK ENIC statement may be mandatory if:
- Your qualification is from a non-majority English-speaking country
- You are proving your English proficiency through your academic background
- The UK sponsor or employer requires verification of qualification equivalency
UK Skilled Worker Visa Points Calculator
Accepted Qualifications
UK ENIC reviews qualifications from over 200 countries and territories, including:
- Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD degrees
- Technical and vocational qualifications
- Professional certifications (in some cases)
Each assessment includes a comparison to a UK qualification level (e.g., RQF Level 6 = Bachelor’s).
Common Use Cases
- Healthcare Professionals: Nurses and doctors from abroad validating credentials
- Teachers: Seeking QTS in England or roles in UK schools
- IT Specialists: Verifying technical degrees for Skilled Worker Visas
- Students: Confirming eligibility for postgraduate study
Limitations and Exemptions
- UK ENIC does not accredit institutions or certify course content
- It is not a substitute for professional registration (e.g., GMC, NMC)
- Some UK universities may conduct their own assessments
Internal Resources at UK Bloom
- Visa Eligibility Checker
- UK Skilled Worker Visa Guide
- Health and Care Visa Guide
- Life in the UK Test Preparation
External Links
- UK ENIC Official Website
- UK Home Office Visa Requirements
- UKVI English Language Requirements
- Professional Qualifications Act 2022
Disclaimer
This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Requirements and fees are subject to change. We recommend verifying details directly with UK ENIC or a licensed immigration adviser before applying.
Explore more visa support tools and eligibility checkers at UKBloom.co.uk
