Understanding the legal landscape is crucial for foreign-qualified lawyers aiming to transition into the UK legal market. According to Jess Vernal, a legal recruiter from Robert Walters' Manchester team, preparation is key to making this transition successful. The allure of Europe on your doorstep is enticing, but without the right preparation and support, navigating the UK legal system can be challenging. This article provides essential advice on what to expect and how to prepare effectively.
Advice for foreign-qualified lawyers in the UK
To embark on your legal career in England and Wales, registration with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) is a necessary step. "Registering with the SRA is crucial," Jess advises, "as it allows you to work as a Registered Foreign Lawyer (RFL)." This status permits you to perform or oversee legal work not restricted by the Legal Services Act 2007. For detailed application requirements, consult the SRA website.
Is my legal experience transferable in the UK?
In the UK legal market, some legal disciplines are more transferable than others.
"Typically, lawyers with a litigation, regulatory, banking & finance, construction and corporate law background have an easier time securing employment than lawyers coming from an immigration, employment and real estate law background. This is due to demand driven by government projects and socioeconomic trends in addition to more comparative legislation."
It's also important to note that even as a litigator - you cannot formally undertake the steps in a proceeding but under instructions and supervision you can assist in the conduct of litigation. Further details on this and other restrictions for litigators and other disciplines can be found here.
Is my experience considered the same in the UK?
The UK legal market might assess your Post-Qualified Experience (PQE) differently than in your home country.
"When you complete your LLB or equivalent in the UK, you sit your Legal Professional Course before completing what typically amounts to a two-year trainee solicitor position at a law firm. Once Trainee Solicitors complete this, they are admitted to the Bar and considered Newly Qualified Lawyers (NQ)."
Therefore, it is important to be conscious that your initial roles in the UK may be at a different level of seniority or pay slightly less than your equivalent in the country of admission. For example, if you are 2 PQE in New Zealand or Australia, you are considered an NQ lawyer in the UK by some firms. In some cases, you might be considered even slightly less experienced; this is the case in firms which place a high value on the traditional UK training route.
"To ensure you experience a more seamless transition and best position yourself for competitive roles, it's my advice to build up your legal expertise at a good law firm for at least 4-5 years prior to relocating. I know that’s hard for people bidding their colleagues and friends farewell year on year, but I can almost guarantee in doing so you’ll be more knowledgeable, more specialised, and more senior in turn putting yourself in the best position to secure a competitive role and potentially future sponsorship."
To get a better understanding of current salaries for lawyers in the UK, refer to our free 2025 Legal Salary Survey Guide which includes average pay rates across the London, the North and the Midlands.
Becoming a UK-qualified lawyer
What are the pathways to qualification in the UK?
For those aiming to stay in the UK long-term, transferring your qualifications involves further study and exams.
"There are two main routes of becoming a qualified lawyer in the UK: completing a Bachelor of Laws or equivalent and Legal Practicing Course (LPC) or sitting the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE).
SQE's is the easiest pathway for RFL's to obtain their qualification and involves sitting a two-part exam. SQE1 is a two-part exam comprised of 180 multiple choice questions per exam. You'll then complete SQE2 which tests your oral and written legal skills across five disciplines of law: criminal litigation, dispute resolution, property practice, wills and probates, and business organisations and procedures.
Usually as part of qualifying through the SQE route you must complete some kind of work experience but typically RFL get exemptions from this depending on their level of experience."
"Becoming qualified in England & Wales isn't essential but it’s likely you'll find it slightly easier securing competitive roles further down the track."
Getting a job as a foreign-qualified lawyer in the UK
What are my sponsorship prospects?
Securing sponsorship is vital for long-term employment in the UK. Law firms like DLA Piper LLP may sponsor foreign-qualified lawyers for a Skilled Workers Visa, depending on seniority and specialisation. Jess suggests, "Lawyers with over 5 PQE in high-demand areas have better chances, so it's advisable to start saving for your visa application early."
When should I contact a legal recruitment agency?
If you're planning a move or considering a Euro summer before settling in the UK, connect with a legal recruitment consultant as soon as possible. Get in touch with Robert Walters' International Career Management (ICM) function who can assist with your transition, offering connections to specialist consultants who understand the market dynamics. If you are considering moving to the North-West of the UK, get in touch with Jess directly for advice and support.
Jess Vernal, Senior Consultant
Email: Jess.Vernal@RobertWalters.com
Phone: +447823647177
Robert Walters' team of legal recruitment consultants, many of whom are qualified lawyers, are ready to support your career aspirations across the UK and globally. For confidential advice and to initiate your legal career move, contact our team to be connected with the right consultant for your needs, or browse the latest legal jobs in the UK.
