Apply for an HM Armed Forces Veteran Card
An HM Armed Forces Veteran Card is a way to prove that you served in the UK armed forces. The card can make it quicker and easier to apply for support as a veteran.
It’s free to apply.
You can currently only apply for a Veteran Card if you have a UK address. Veterans who do not have a UK address will be able to apply later this year.
Check what you can do with a Veteran Card.
Who can get an HM Armed Forces Veteran Card
You can apply if you were in the regulars or reserves for the:
- Royal Navy
- Army
- Royal Air Force (RAF)
- Royal Marines
You may also be able to apply if you served in:
- the Royal Fleet Auxiliary
- the Merchant Navy - and you sailed in support of the UK armed forces
- another group in the UK armed forces
You can check when you apply online or when you call to request a postal form.
You cannot apply if you served:
-
in the armed forces of another country
-
alongside the UK armed forces, for example in the Canadian Navy or Royal Australian Air Force
What you’ll need
When you apply, you’ll be asked for:
-
your service number for your last period of service
-
the approximate year you started and ended your service - it does not have to be exact
-
a recent digital passport style photo, showing your head and shoulders
Apply online
To apply online, you’ll need to prove your identity using GOV.UK One Login. You’ll be able to create a GOV.UK One Login if you do not already have one.
To do this, you’ll need:
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an email address
-
photo ID - for example, a UK passport or driving licence
You can only apply online if you’re applying on your own behalf. If you’re getting a card for someone else, apply by post.
Other ways to apply
Contact the Veterans UK Helpline if you cannot apply online.
They’ll send you a form that you can return by post. The form is available in English or Welsh.
Veterans UK Helpline
veterans-uk@mod.gov.uk
Telephone: 0808 1914 218
Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm
Find out about call charges
After you’ve applied
You’ll usually get your Veteran Card within:
- 6 weeks, if you apply online
- 14 weeks, if you apply by post
You can also apply for a veterans badge or a medal if you’re eligible.
If you live in Northern Ireland
You can choose to either:
- have your card sent in the post
- collect your card from a Veterans Welfare Service (Northern Ireland) office
Email the Veterans Welfare Service to find your nearest office.
Get help
Contact the Veterans UK Helpline if you need help applying.
Veterans UK Helpline
veterans-uk@mod.gov.uk
Telephone: 0808 1914 218
Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm
Find out about call charges