This is delivered by United Kingdom Security Vetting (UKSV), which is part of the Cabinet Office Government Security Group and the Government Security Function. UKSV staff are professional and culturally sensitive, treating all applicants with respect throughout the process.

Anyone, irrespective of background or circumstance, should feel able to apply for a security clearance. Information is gathered in a proportionate, respectful, and sensitive way. You may be asked to provide information about your:

• Background, family, and employment history

• Places of residence

• Criminal convictions

• Financial situation (for higher clearance levels)

• Personal life experiences

There are no right or wrong answers. The process makes no judgements about you as an individual. Information is only requested to identify areas of risk relevant to the clearance level required. Depending on your clearance level, we may need to understand:

• Nationality and overseas connections - particularly connections to countries with which the UK has more challenging relationships

• Financial circumstances - whether your spending is sustainable, recognising most people manage debts and credit agreements

• Health and wellbeing - only where strictly relevant to risk management; health considerations rarely cause concern

• Personal matters - in strict confidence, only to understand if there is a risk of information being used against you maliciously

• Relationships and associations - to understand if any significant influences could present inappropriate risks

• Online presence - for civil and crown servants, whether public online content is consistent with the Civil Service Code.

All new MDP entrants must obtain SC clearance as a minimum requirement. SC clearance involves credit checks and checks against UK criminal and security records, including overseas records where appropriate.

Read the SC guidance pack for applicants.

Postings to sites such as the AWE require the enhanced DV clearance level. DV checks include:

• Completion of detailed security questionnaires

• Financial checks including Credit Reference Agency checks

• Telephone or in-person interviews with character referees

• A detailed interview conducted by a Vetting Officer

DV clearance ensures your character, personal circumstances, and integrity mean you can be trusted with access to sensitive information and assets. Even if not initially posted to a DV clearance site, you will need to obtain DV clearance if later posted to a site with higher security requirements.

Read the DV guidance pack for applicants.

The vetting process can feel daunting, but people from diverse backgrounds and experiences hold clearance at the highest level. Wellbeing support is available for national security vetting applicants.

For queries about the UKSV vetting process, contact UKSV directly.

The Cabinet Office provides comprehensive guidance videos to help you understand the vetting process:

Vetting: An Overview

Vetting and Finances

Vetting and Life Experiences

Vetting and Internet Use

You would be offered an alternative posting at a site appropriate to the clearance level that you achieved prior to appointment. There would be no entitlement to relocation expenses. You are therefore advised that you should not commit financially to a move of home, until it is confirmed that you have the required standard of clearance for your designated posting.