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Joining from overseas

If you’re from certain overseas countries or territories then you’re welcome to apply to the British Army and share the benefits of life as an officer or soldier.

Foreign & Commonwealth Nationals

If you are from overseas and meet all the eligibility requirements, you may complete the Application on this website. Once assessed, you may be eligible to start the recruitment process in the UK. At peak times, this response may take time. Please be patient.

Read the Commonwealth Applicants & AFCO Form 5 notes. This is important as travel to the UK is at your own risk. Your application may be unsuccessful at any stage. These are downloadable documents which are sat within the Download Library. 

We cannot assist with applications for visas, and your application does not guarantee your eligibility for a visa. All Officer Applicants must ensure that they meet the Age, Education and Residency requirements in full. These are listed in the 'Can I Join' section of the website.

Gurkhas

Gurkhas are soldiers recruited in Nepal to serve in the British Army. Selection takes place every December at Pokhara, in the centre of the country. Standards are high and 176 young men are selected to do their military training and join one of the specialist Gurkha units in the UK. Their roles include infantry soldiering, signals, logistics and engineering. Gurkhas get the same benefits as every other British soldier.
Army Gurkha from Nepal

Application and selection

Overseas applicants can apply online. The recruiting process will be conducted in the UK. You must read the information held in the Download Library to check you meet all the requirements before applying. You must have the right to remain in the UK throughout the recruiting process. For advice on obtaining a visa, visit the UK Border Agency website at http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk.

 

Royal Engineer sawing timber

Check your eligibility

Find out if you meet the criteria to join the British Army.

Get the details

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