Applying For Jobs

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Who can apply for a job at MI5?

We welcome people from a range of different backgrounds, with a variety of skills, experience and qualifications. Due to the sensitivity of our work, however, there are certain criteria that you must meet to be eligible to work here.

Key points to consider

Diversity

"Keeping the country safe is a challenge that requires the best efforts of the richest mix of the most talented people in our society, working together in high performing teams. So it is essential to our success that ours is an inclusive workplace offering varied, rewarding and challenging careers for all".

Director General Andrew Parker

Discretion

Discretion is vital. You should not discuss your application, other than with your partner or a close family member, providing they are British. You should also make them aware of the importance of discretion. You should not mention your application on social media or discuss it with anyone else at this stage…

Eligibility

To be eligible to apply you must be a British citizen (either born here or naturalised) and one of your parents must be a British citizen or have substantial ties to the UK. Due to vetting requirements you need to be 18 years old or above. Candidates must normally have been resident in the UK for nine out of the last 10 years...

Vetting

Owing to the sensitive nature of our work we must be satisfied as to the honesty and integrity of our staff. We must also be satisfied that there are no significant vulnerabilities to the people who work here or to the organisation itself. Our members of staff are likely to have access to sensitive information...

The Selection Process

The recruitment process varies for each role and full details for each can be found when you view the job you are applying for. However there are certain points you may wish to consider before making an application.