For qualified lawyers coming from outside England and Wales, it is still possible to practice.
The Solicitors Regulation Authority does not impose any formal experience requirements in order to re-qualify as solicitors in England and Wales. Some law firms may express their own requirements which can differ from the SRA guidelines. Candidates can take the Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme in order to qualify under this jurisdiction.
Lawyers coming from EU Member States can rely on EU Directive 77/249 in this area. European lawyers can practice to the same level as they did in the own country. However, it is not possible to be a barrister and solicitor simultaneously.