What is HABIA?

HABIA (Hair and Beauty Industry Authority) is the standards-setting body for the UK hair, beauty, nails and spa sectors. It develops the National Occupational Standards that underpin qualifications such as NVQs and apprenticeships, defining what competent practitioners should be able to do. While HABIA itself does not train or certify individuals, the standards it writes shape the curricula that awarding bodies and colleges deliver. Employers reference HABIA standards when designing training and assessing competence.