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Defence Vetting Agency - Frequently Asked Questions - Assessment of Suitability

Questions about assessment of suitability

Who decides whether a security clearance will be granted?
The DVA will make a recommendation in the light of all the available information obtained during the vetting process.

Will I be told the outcome of the process?
Unless you are being recruited directly into a security cleared job, you will be told the outcome of the vetting process. This is the responsibility of your Sponsor (usually your Human Resources/Personnel Office, line manager or company Security Controller), not the DVA.

What if you refuse my clearance?
If you are refused a clearance you will be told what actions are available to you.

Can I appeal against a vetting decision?
If you are a civil servant, member of the Armed Forces or employed in Defence Industry, internal appeal procedures are open to you to appeal against vetting decisions. In addition, if the internal appeal process does not satisfy you, you can be referred to the independent Cabinet Office Security Vetting Appeals Panel. Applicants for employment have no formal right of appeal.

Will a criminal record result in clearance being refused?
Not necessarily. Each case will be judged on its merits. The important thing is to be completely open about any criminal history - including spent convictions and police cautions. Any attempt to hide information could be taken as evidence of unreliability/dishonesty and may affect the clearance.

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The Vetting System
Safeguards
The Vetting Process
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Contractors And Consultants
Privacy And Data Protection
Frequently Asked Questions

Defence Vetting Agency

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