Warfare Specialist, how long does it take to join?

[CursedBuck]

I've kept an eye out for WS for a while now and I've seen on the RN website that it's still a priority role, has anyone joined recently or has been given a date for when they'll join? I know some lads have already asked this question but I'm mainly asking people who have joined or have been given a date recently.

 

[Ninja_Stoker]

From passing the recruit test to starting training at HMS Raleigh it's theoretically possible to join in around three to four months - assuming there are no delays at medical, the fitness test is taken and passed immediately & security clearance is completed, submitted & gained without any delays.

 

[CursedBuck]

Thanks for the info mate cheers

 

[Ninja_Stoker]

Just to add, I note from your other thread that you are resident overseas - security clearance can take considerably longer depending on your country of residence.

 

[CursedBuck]

Yeah I figured that would be the case just to clarify tho I am a UK citizen, I thought about handling my application before I travel to the UK would you recommend I move to the UK first and then apply ? Would it make a difference or would that just cause more confusion ? I have family willing to take me in for a few months to see if I can make a career in the British Armed forces.

 

[Ninja_Stoker]

Yeah I figured that would be the case just to clarify tho I am a UK citizen, I thought about handling my application before I travel to the UK would you recommend I move to the UK first and then apply ? Would it make a difference or would that just cause more confusion ? I have family willing to take me in for a few months to see if I can make a career in the British Armed forces.

Either way you will need the residency waiver for security clearance so you can apply online from overseas, quoting a UK contact address for undergoing selection in UK.

The overseas desk will intially process your application then hand you off to the most convenient UK AFCO for you. Many overseas applicants return to UK to complete selection then return to their overseas residence pending their gaining security clearance and being allocated a start date.

If living in Commonwealth countries such as Oz, NZ & Canada or Europe or the USA, security clearance can be relatively swift. If living in North Korea, China, Syria, Yemen, etc., expect a long wait or even a knock-back for certain jobs.

Other tip: If living overseas, somewhere warm...you need to get yourself back to UK a month or twobefore joining to acclimatise as those living in tropical climes are significantly more susceptible to cold weather injuries during the physical rigours of training.