The British Army now allows people from Commonwealth countries, like Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Cameroon, India, Australia, Fiji, and Sri Lanka, to apply for certain military jobs. This is even if they have never lived in the UK before.
The army’s website has announced that the application window for these Commonwealth candidates will be open from August 19th to August 26th, so it’s only for one week.
However, refugees and asylum seekers are not allowed to apply for these roles.
A rule that was introduced in 2016 already lets 200 Commonwealth citizens who haven’t lived in the UK for 5 years apply for a limited number of jobs each year. The plan is to increase this number over time.
The specific roles that Commonwealth candidates can apply for are:
- Musicians
- Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineering roles
- Royal Engineers Technician and Tradesman roles
- Paratrooper
To apply for these ‘soldier’ roles, candidates must be at least 16 years old, though the age may vary depending on the specific job.
The British Army is opening up exciting opportunities for you, but there are a few important things to know before you apply.
First and foremost, your application must be linked to the Recruit Bounty Referral Scheme, which is a special program for current British Army members to refer candidates. The only exception is for those applying to be musicians.
If you’re interested in being a musician, you’ll need to meet specific musical standards, which you can find details about on the Army Musicians page.
Medical Screening
One important part of the recruitment process is the medical screening. The Army will be checking for Sickle Cell traits, which are more common in people from Commonwealth countries. Don’t worry, having the Sickle Cell Trait won’t automatically disqualify you, but you may need to take a special blood test before proceeding to the fitness tests.
This medical check is just a safety precaution to make sure everyone stays healthy during training.
Am I Eligible?
Soldiers: You must be at least 16 years old to apply, though you can start the process as young as 15 years and 7 months. If you’re under 17 and a half, you’ll need to attend the Army Foundation College before starting your regular training.
The age limit for soldier roles is 36 years old.
Officers: For officer positions, you must be between 18 and 29 years old. Exceptions can be made for those over 30 who are applying for specialized roles like being a doctor.
You’ll also need to meet certain academic requirements, like having 35 ALIS points from 7 subjects (including passing English, Math, and Science/foreign language) and 72 UCAS Tariff points from 3 subjects.
Fitness and Lifestyle
To join the Army, you’ll need to pass a series of fitness tests, like the Beep Test, Seated Ball Throw, and Mid Thigh Pull. The Army can help you prepare and maintain a healthy lifestyle to meet these requirements.
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Tattoos and Piercings
The Army has some rules about tattoos and piercings. Tattoos can’t be offensive or visible in your passport photo, and large flesh tunnels or face piercings may not be allowed. You’ll also need to remove any jewellery during physical activities.
Criminal Convictions
The Army takes a fair, rehabilitative approach to criminal convictions. You’ll need to disclose any unspent convictions, but honesty is key – hiding anything could get you in trouble later.
Getting a Head Start
If you’re not quite old enough to join the Army yet, consider joining the Army Cadet Force. This will let you get involved in military-themed activities, sports, and outdoor adventures while you wait to apply.
Application Timeline
The application window for these Commonwealth roles is strictly from August 19th to 26th, 2024. If you miss this deadline, you’ll have to wait until next year. If successful, you’ll need to travel to the UK for further assessment in October/November 2024, with training starting between January and March 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, your family can join you, as long as:
You and your family can meet the immigration rules.
You can pay for their visa and travel costs.
Make sure that you talk to your recruiter about your immigration circumstances.
For your family to come to the UK, you and your family must meet the minimum income and English language requirements.
The current minimum income requirements (MIR) to bring in entitled family members are:
£23,496, which is the minimum salary after completing training
This minimum salary will be the same regardless of the number of children you want to bring to the UK (unlike previous years).
If you want to naturalise while you’re serving, you’ll need to pay all the costs and make sure you meet the Home Office’s requirements. Your service can count towards the residency part of the requirements.
The Army Recruit Bounty Scheme rewards serving soldiers for encouraging their friends and family to consider and apply to join the Army. A cash reward is paid for each new soldier that begins basic training that they have referred.
You’ll be given ‘exempt immigration control’ status while you’re serving. If you want to stay in the UK after your service ends and have served for six or more years or been discharged as a result of an illness or injury caused by your Service you will not have to pay a fee
So there you have it – all the key details you need to know about these exciting Commonwealth opportunities with the British Army. Let me know if you have any other questions!
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