How do I write a UK CV if I am applying while still living abroad?

Follow UK CV conventions fully and make your availability and location plan clear. UK recruiters may hesitate if they cannot tell when you could start or whether you can attend interviews.

Checklist:

• Two pages, A4, British spelling, no photo, no date of birth or nationality.
• A location line: "Based in Lagos, relocating to Manchester in June 2026" or "Available for video interviews".
• A right-to-work line only if it is accurate and helps.
• UK phone number if you have one, or your international number with country code.
• Context for overseas employers and qualifications.

Be honest about your timing. Promising a start date you cannot meet causes problems later.

It also helps to show any links you already have with the UK: a UK degree, UK clients you served, or courses with UK bodies. If your experience is entirely overseas, add a line of context for each employer so the recruiter can judge its size and sector quickly.