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How does foreign travel affect security vetting?

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Picture of Katie
2 responses
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I joined the army earlier this year, but I turned up to training with an injury and was discharged for defect in enlistment after a few weeks. I’m going to re-enlist because I really want to join the army, but I’m planning to take this opportunity to go travelling for a while before I do. I’ve been travelling before (I went backpacking through Europe and the Balkans after my A-levels), which I disclosed during the security check we did at the start of training (I think it was the CTC check, but I’m not entirely sure) and didn’t have any issues with it that I know of This time, I plan on backpacking through South America for roughly a year (specifically Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina). I won’t be staying in any of those countries longer than the 90-day visa-free entry allows, but I was wondering if travel to any of those countries could pose a risk to my re-enlistment and subsequent security and vetting checks once I return?

Christopher B. asked a question to HR, Finance and Support

Category: Internal career mobility

Date asked: Tuesday, December 5, 2023

Last reviewed: Wednesday, December 6, 2023

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Josh W.

Officer for Recruiting in London

Hi Christopher,

Whilst I can't speak to specific vetting as this is managed by UK Security Vetting who are a separate organisation, I can provide anecdotal experience. Backpacking in those countries should not prove you any issues and we only ask that you keep a record of where you've been and when.

Hope you enjoy the travel and rejoin the Army on your return!

Wednesday, December 6, 2023

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Katie -.

Staff Officer - Projects for People

Hi Christopher,

Josh is correct that travelling in South America should not impact you gaining security clearance, and I stress his point about keeping detailed records of where you go, which dates, where you stay, and if you do have any encounters with police or military forces whilst you are there.

I would advise that you pay close attention to the government foreign travel advice as there are some countries, areas or cities within South American which it is not advisable to visit:
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

Enjoy your travels and good luck with your reenlistment.

Katie

Wednesday, December 6, 2023

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