It’s perhaps not surprising that background vetting and identity checks for positions working in the government are standard practice. Most civil servants and other public workers will have some sort of background checking, with the most senior or sensitive roles having very in-depth vetting which can take several weeks or months to get through.

Government security clearance comes in four levels, each tailored to specific job requirements, especially for roles handling sensitive information on a daily basis. If you are thinking of applying for a role in these fields, then the advert will usually clearly state which level of vetting is required.

Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Enhanced Baseline Standard (EBS)

Although not legally mandated, BPSS and EBS the basic level of background checking and vetting. These checks don’t just apply for those working in government roles and are often used in the security industry for cash in transit drivers or bouncers. These checks provide an overview of an individual’s suitability for their role and serve as entry-level security measures. Anyone applying for a job in government will have at least this basic level of identity and background checking to confirm basic details about their identity, experience, qualifications, and criminal record.

Counter Terrorist Check (CTC)

Counter terrorist checks are essential for individuals in roles where sensitive information is at risk of compromise. The idea of these checks is to look more deeply at someone’s background, family, and friends, to find anyone who may be vulnerable to pressure from terrorist organisations. Though these checks take approximately six months to complete, they are seen as essential for national security. Valid for three years, CTC clearance may involve an interview and a requirement for the individual to have been a UK resident for a minimum of three years.

Security Clearance (SC)

Applicants for jobs requiring Security Clearance have to be resident in the UK for a minimum of five years. Government contractors must also renew this clearance every five years, while permanent employees with significant access to private or top-secret assets renew every ten years. Security clearance is usually concerned with criminal record checking and looking at potential links through family or friends to people of concern.

Developed Vetting

The most detailed level of checking, this is reserved for roles with substantial unsupervised access to top-secret assets in intelligence or security agencies. These checks involve a thorough investigation into an individual’s past, personal and professional life, as well as their educational and employment history.

Importance of Government Clearance

The level of vetting required will depend on the job. For the most sensitive roles, the detail of checking and questions asked can feel intrusive. Some government vetting involves giving details of friends and family, and detailed questioning about lengthy periods which you have spent overseas. Applicants are usually called for interview with the vetting officers and asked to clarify any points of confusion. The best advice is to be honest, don’t tell lies on your CV and cooperate fully with the screening.