If you hold or are working toward an NVQ (National Vocational Qualification), you may be wondering how it’s viewed abroad. With industries like construction, engineering, and oil and gas becoming increasingly global, it’s important to know whether your NVQ will help you work overseas.
What Is an NVQ?
An NVQ is a UK qualification proving you can apply practical skills and knowledge in real jobs. Assessment happens in the workplace, not in exams. Levels range from Level 2 (entry trades) to Level 7 (strategic management). For example, you might complete Level 2 in Steel Erecting or progress to Level 6–7 in Construction Management.
Providers like Think Construction Skills deliver NVQs flexibly, helping learners balance work and study.
International Recognition
There’s no single global accreditation for NVQs. They’re regulated by UK awarding bodies such as City & Guilds and Pearson, so recognition abroad relies on comparison rather than automatic approval.
Most workers use Ecctis (formerly UK ENIC) to obtain a comparability statement that maps NVQs to local qualifications. Examples include:
- Level 2–3 → Comparable to vocational training in Europe
- Level 6–7 → Often aligned with bachelor’s or master’s degrees
Keep in mind NVQs are competency-based, not academic, so they focus on performance in the workplace.
How Countries View NVQs
- Europe – Often accepted after Ecctis verification.
- Middle East – Valued in construction, oil, and gas for safety standards.
- Australia & New Zealand – Can be assessed for equivalence; extra training may be required.
- Canada & USA – Not formally recognised, but employers often value them in technical roles.
For licensed trades such as electricians or plumbers, local certification is usually still required.
Where NVQs Are Respected
NVQs hold strong weight in industries where proven competence is key:
- Construction and Civil Engineering
- Oil and Gas
- Engineering Construction
- Health and Safety
Employers in these sectors often see NVQs as proof of practical skills.
Steps Before Using an NVQ Abroad
- Apply through Ecctis for a comparability statement.
- Check visa and licence rules in your target country.
- Keep certificates and work evidence organised.
- Check employer requirements, especially with large contractors.
- Prepare for extra training where needed.
The Role of ECITB
The Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) supports NVQs in engineering and heavy industries. While it doesn’t grant international recognition, ECITB’s name is respected worldwide, adding weight to your qualification.
Conclusion
So, is the NVQ recognised internationally? Yes—though not everywhere automatically. Through Ecctis, employer recognition, and local licensing, NVQs can open doors abroad, especially in construction, engineering, and oil and gas.
At Think Construction Skills, we deliver NVQs backed by flexible assessments, industry expertise, and funding support. Whether you build your career in the UK or overseas, the right NVQ can take you further.
Start your NVQ journey today — contact Think Construction Skills to find the right qualification.