Training and Work Experience Scheme (TWES)
The Training and Work Experience Scheme (TWES) will enable you to gain skills and experience through work-based learning, which builds on previous education and training. You must have a UK employer willing to employ you under this scheme. This scheme is generally for applicants from developing countries but it is possible to meet requirements even if you do not come from a developing country.
The work experience position you take up must be additional to the normal staffing requirements of the employer. If the position would otherwise be filled by a UK/EU resident worker, you should apply for a Business & Commercial Work Permit instead. This also applies to trainees who will undergo on the job training.
TWES allows foreign nationals to receive training or work experience that is not available in their home country. The skills and experience gained under TWES can then be used on return to your home country. The traning scheme must lead to the award of a professional qualification or occupational skill. You also need to show you have relevant educational/professional qualifications to begin with. Your employer must pay you wages equivalent to those offered for similar UK on-the-job work experience or training positions.
The TWES scheme allows you to enter the UK for up to 3 years.
Submitting an application
TWES is similar to the Work Permit scheme in that a UK employer must make the application. The application is for a specific foreign national. The position will be one of either practical work experience, or training for a specialist/professional qualification.
If you are outside the UK at the time we submit your TWES application, we will send you the TWES permit, once issued. TWES permit holders must then obtain entry clearance at the nearest British Embassy before travelling.
If you are already in the UK at the time Mulberry Finch makes the application for you, the UK Border Agency will issue a letter of permission rather than a TWES permit. We will then apply for Further Leave to Remain on your behalf.
Extension applications
Mulberry Finch can apply for an extension to your TWES permit. You need to contact us to make the application before your permit to stay in the country runs out. Please see us before this date so that we may make the application for you.
Change of employer
A TWES permit holder can only be employed in the specified post, and at the specified address on the permit. You can transfer the TWES permit to a new employer, as long as it is for the same type of training or work experience. Your transfer application must be submitted no later than 28 days after your original employment ends.
Dependants
The spouse or unmarried partner and children may join a TWES permit holder as dependants. Dependants can take employment or engage in business.
Switching visas
The only categories of applicants that can switch to a TWES permit without having to leave the UK are students. Generally you are not allowed to transfer from TWES to a Work Permit.
