Understanding vetting
Updated 7 October 2022
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/demystifying-vetting/understanding-vetting
Vetting is the government process which enables individuals to hold a level of national security clearance that may be required for their role. It is a whole-life consideration of an individual, that establishes a trust between an employer and employee.
Many areas of your life may be explored during your vetting journey, and it is important that every individual, regardless of their background and experiences, should feel comfortable going through this personal process, whilst having confidence that it is fair, proportionate and inclusive.
The videos on this page cover some common topics covered during the vetting experience, and should be used by applicants and prospective candidates, to deepen their understanding of what to expect.
For further guidance on the vetting process, see Vetting Explained and our Vetting Charter.
You can also find information about the different national security clearance levels.
A step-by-step guide to the application process for a national security clearance can be found at United Kingdom Security Vetting: Applicant.
If you are a vetting applicant, sponsor or existing clearance holder, further information can be found from the United Kingdom Security Vetting homepage.
Support for applicants, sponsors or existing clearance holders is available from the UKSV Helpdesk United Kingdom Security Vetting: Contact Us.
A guide is also available on gov.uk to organisations which can offer wellbeing support if you have been affected by going through the vetting process.