FAQs - qualified lawyer transfer scheme (QLTS)
Why did the SRA change the way that lawyers from other jurisdictions can qualify to practise in England and Wales?
The Qualified Lawyers Transfer Test was set up in 1990. On 1 September 2010, we introduced a new scheme to reflect major changes to legal education and the route to qualification as a solicitor in England and Wales.
The new scheme will help to ensure the public and the solicitors' profession have confidence in the qualifications, knowledge and skills of all solicitors—no matter how they qualify.
In 2009, one of every four individuals who were admitted as a solicitor of England and Wales had practised here as a barrister or had first qualified in another jurisdiction.