Apply to register as a foreign lawyer

Updated August 2024

Step by step guide

Who can apply

For an application to succeed, four basic requirements must be fulfilled:

• You must be a foreign lawyer (An RFL is a 'foreign lawyer' who is registered with us and therefore appears on our register of RFLs.).
• The profession of which you are a member must be approved by us as appropriately regulated.
• Your own professional rules must allow practice with solicitors in England and Wales.
• You must satisfy us as to your character and suitability.
• Read the full criteria and guidance to check you are eligible.

Get ready to apply

• Log in to mySRA to apply. You will need to create an account if you don't already have one. You'll need to register a personal phone number when you do this. We'll then send you a text or call to verify your identity every time you access mySRA.
• You will need to upload a certificate of good standing from each bar, law society or chamber of which you are a member. This applies whether or not you are still practising as a member of that profession.

How to apply

You will need to update:

Renewing your registration

You will use the same application to renew your certificate each year in October. When applying you will be asked whether you are eligible for reduced fees.

If you start an individual renewal application and then decide to opt into your employer's bulk renewal, you will need to withdraw that application first. You will find the 'Withdraw my application' button at the bottom of the summary page.

How to pay

You can pay by credit or debit card at the end of your application.

Find about what fees you will pay.