Definition
A hard gate is a requirement that can stop an application before skills are assessed, such as work authorization, a required license, a degree level, or a minimum number of years.
在评估能力前就能让申请出局的硬性条件，如工作许可、执照、学历、最低年限。
Why it matters
Missing a hard gate makes prep irrelevant until the gate is solved or explicitly waived.
Example
“Must have the right to work in the UK” or “Master’s degree required” is a hard gate; “Kafka is a plus” is not.
Related terms
Last updated 2026-11-10. This is an editorial definition, not legal or tax advice.