Anyone who wants to apply for an SIA licence needs to complete their application online. If there are no complications the process is relatively straightforward and will look similar to this:
Step 1: Register
If this is your first application you will need to register for a personal online account: https://services.sia.homeoffice.gov.uk/sign-up/
Step 2: Login
If you have held any SIA licence previously you will be able to log in with your existing account: https://services.sia.homeoffice.gov.uk/login/
Step 3: Apply
Once logged in, navigate to ‘Start a New Application’: https://services.sia.homeoffice.gov.uk/sia-create-application/
Complete sections 1-9 on the online application, review your details and then click submit.
Step 4: Next Steps
You will be notified by email of the next steps. When instructed to do so, visit a post office to have your ID documents checked and photographs taken. You will also be required to pay the application fee.
Step 5: Checks
Once the application process has begun a criminal background and right to work check will be conducted.
Step 6: Decision
You will be notified of the outcome of the decision by email. If you are successful you will be granted a licence, which should be dispatched to you within 14 days.
What if my application is unsuccessful?
If the SIA refuses to grant you a licence they will write to you to explain their decision. You are not entitled to a refund but you can appeal the decision within 21 days of the date of the decision letter being issued.
When Does the SIA front line licence expire?
The licence expires three years after it was first issued. Operators must renew their licences to continue working in the private security industry. You can start the application process up to three months before your current licence expires.
What happens if you do not renew your licence before it expires?
The SIA guidance is as follows:
Where an individual’s licence has expired, but he or she wants to apply for a new one, then we will accept that person’s qualification as long as there has been less than three years between the old licence expiring and the application being made for the new one.
