HM Armed Forces Veteran Card
Apply for a Veteran Card
You only need to apply if you left the armed forces before December 2018. Otherwise, you’ll get your Veteran Card in your service leavers’ pack within 6 weeks of leaving the armed forces.
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.
What you’ll need
When you apply, you’ll be asked for:
-
your service number for your last period of service
-
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 for yourself. If you’re getting a card for someone else, apply by post.
It’s free to apply.
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. The form is available in English or Welsh.
It’s free to apply.
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 usually get your Veteran Card within 10 weeks.
You can also apply for a veterans badge or a medal if you’re eligible.
If you live in Northern Ireland
You can choose to either:
- have your card sent in the post
- collect your card from a Veterans Welfare Service (Northern Ireland) office
Email the Veterans Welfare Service to find your nearest office.
Get help
Contact the Veterans UK Helpline if you need help applying.
Veterans UK Helpline
veterans-uk@mod.gov.uk
Telephone: 0808 1914 218
Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm
Find out about call charges