Veterans who left their service before December 2018 can now apply for the Veteran Card.
An HM Armed Forces Veteran Card is a way to prove that you served in the UK armed forces. The card can make it quicker and easier to apply for support as a veteran.
It’s free to apply.
You can currently only apply for a Veteran Card if you have a UK address. Veterans who do not have a UK address will be able to apply later this year.
Check what you can do with a Veteran Card.
Who can get an HM Armed Forces Veteran Card
You can apply if you were in the regulars or reserves for the:
- Royal Navy
- Army
- Royal Air Force (RAF)
- Royal Marines
If you served in another group in the UK armed forces, you may still be able to get a card. You can check when you apply online or when you call to request a postal form.
You cannot apply if you served:
- in the armed forces of another country
- alongside the UK armed forces, for example in the Canadian Navy or Royal Australian Air Force
What you’ll need
When you apply, you’ll be asked for:
- your service number for your last period of service
- your National Insurance number
- the approximate year you started and ended your service – it does not have to be exact
- a recent digital passport style photo, showing your head and shoulders
Apply online
To apply online, you’ll need to prove your identity using GOV.UK One Login. You’ll be able to create a GOV.UK One Login if you do not already have one.
To do this, you’ll need:
- an email address
- photo ID – for example, a UK passport or driving licence
You can only apply online if you’re applying on your own behalf. If you’re getting a card for someone else, apply by post.Start now
Other ways to apply
Contact the Veterans UK Helpline if you cannot apply online. They’ll send you a form that you can return by post.
Veterans UK Helpline: veterans-uk@mod.gov.uk Telephone: 0808 1914 218 Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm – Find out about call charges
After you’ve applied
You’ll get your Veteran Card within 8 weeks of completing your application.
You can also apply for a veterans badge or a medal if you’re eligible.
Get help
Contact the Veterans UK Helpline if you need help applying. Details above.
Head to gov.uk/veteran-card to apply for your card today.
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