Overseas teachers have two main routes to QTS: international QTS (iQTS) — a QTS-equivalent gained while training in their own country (minimum ~24 weeks practical experience) — or the DfE’s “Apply for QTS in England” professional-recognition service, for qualified teachers from eligible countries and subjects. An overseas-qualified teacher can work in England for up to four years without QTS, after which QTS is needed for many schools.
Sources & verification
- Overseas teachers gain QTS via iQTS (trained abroad) or the DfE 'Apply for QTS' recognition service; they can work in England up to four years without QTS — source, verified 2026-06-12 🔶
Verified reference information — not professional, medical, legal or careers advice. Regulations change; always check the cited primary source before relying on it.