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Training and Work Experience Scheme

The purpose of TWES is to allow people to come to the UK to gain skills and qualifications, which they can then use in their own countries. It is not a category that leads to settlement, and time spent in the UK under a TWES permit does not count towards the five year qualifying period for settlement on the basis of working in the UK. It is not usually possible to switch from TWES employment to work permit employment. Like a work permit, a TWES permit is applied for by an employer, who has to provide details of the professional or specialist qualification the employee will achieve, or provide details of the proposed work experience programme. The employer will also have to show that:

• The granting of the TWES permit will not displace any resident labour
• The TWES is not being used to fill a vacancy
• The person for whom the TWES permit is intended has suitable skills and qualifications (usually to NVQ Level 3 equivalent)
• A minimum of 30 hours per week will be spent on training or work experience
• The terms and conditions of employment are comparable to those for a resident worker

A TWES permit is usually granted for a period of between 6 - 12 months, though in some limited circumstances it is possible to get a TWES permit for up to 2 years, providing this is agreed with Work Permits (UK), the branch of the Home Office who deal with work related applications, at the time when the initial application is made.

Once a TWES permit has been granted by Work Permits (UK), the individual will need to apply for entry clearance from the British post in their home country before travelling to the UK. The spouse and children of a TWES permit holder who wish to accompany him/her to the UK must also apply for entry clearance. From within the UK, only holders of student visas may apply to take up TWES employment, after approval for them to do so has been given by Work Permits (UK). The UK authorities charge a fee for processing a TWES application, and again for processing an application for entry clearance or leave to remain.

OUR SERVICES

We provide a complete advice and representation service to employers wishing to apply for work permits.

Our advice is based not just upon what is written in the guidance notes which are issued by Work Permits (UK), but on a thorough understanding and knowledge of the immigration rules and laws, and familiarity with the internal instructions given to caseworkers on how to process applications, so that we understand what Home Office caseworkers are instructed to look for and, as far as possible, anticipate any problems that might occur with an application so as to ensure the best possible chance of success.

We will as standard:

• Meet with you at a time and place that suits you
• Advise on the requirements to be met by both the employer and the potential employee
• Advise on the supporting documentation which needs to be submitted with the application, and collate those documents to support the application
• Complete and submit the application form, with detailed legal representations as necessary
• If the application is refused, analyse the refusal letter and, if appropriate, submit detailed representations for a review of that decision
• Liaise with the authorities on your behalf

In addition, we can also:

• Advise and assist with meeting the advertising requirements
• Assist your prospective employee with the application for entry clearance