Enhanced developed vetting guide for job seekers

Enhanced Developed Vetting (eDV) is the UK’s highest level of security clearance, required for roles involving top secret information. Learn what the process involves, how to prepare, and why it’s essential for high-trust government and private sector positions.

Enhanced developed vetting guide for job seekers

Job seekers applying for certain roles will need to undergo government security checks. One of these may be enhanced developed vetting (eDV). It’s only required for a very small number of high-level clearance roles, where an additional level of assurance is necessary.

What is enhanced developed vetting?

As one of the strictest security clearances in the UK, those who go through the process and are granted eDV can expect to be working with unrestricted access to top secret assets. Very few organisations have an existing prior agreement with United Kingdom Security Vetting (UKSV) and the Cabinet Office to sponsor individuals in their eDV.

Why eDV is important for security roles

It’s important to national security that individuals who require access to highly sensitive information are vetted thoroughly. These materials are often used in critical roles, but safeguarding this information means only those with the utmost trustworthiness and reliability can have access to it.

Being prepared to undergo intense scrutiny to obtain eDV for certain security cleared roles will make you eligible for high-clearance positions in both the government and private sectors. Everything from your criminal record and finances right through to your family and internet use will be examined in detail.

What does the eDV process entail?

The eDV clearance process can be time-consuming, with some cases taking as long as 18 months to be complete. It involves filling out a questionnaire, checks, interviews and a review, so job seekers should be aware of the stages.

Pre-screening

Before the in-depth investigation begins, the employer will perform some pre-employment checks. These will include:

  • Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS)
  • Identity
  • Nationality and immigration status
  • Employment history
  • Unspent criminal records

In-depth background checks and questionnaire

The application is then sent to the UKSV to complete a thorough investigation into the individual. The major components are, but not restricted to:

  • Departmental records
  • Security questionnaire
  • Criminal records – spent and unspent
  • Credit reference check
  • Security service check

Interviews and personal references

Next is the individual interview with a Vetting Clearance Officer (VCO), who will contact you in advance. It will take place at one of the established interview locations. Taking several hours to complete, breaks should be factored into the process. Questions will cover:

  • Nationality and citizenship 
  • Family 
  • Employment history 
  • Health and wellbeing 
  • Friends and associations
  • Alcohol and substance use
  • Travel 
  • Sexual history 
  • Finance
  • Internet usage
  • Criminality 
  • Lifestyle and beliefs

Tips for preparing for the process

Security vetting preparation to obtain sensitive job clearance involves being organised and ensuring you’re in the right frame of mind. Here are some proactive ways you can ready yourself for the UK national security clearance process:

  • Organise your personal and financial records
  • Prepare to maintain transparency during the vetting process
  • Obtain strong character references
  • Familiarise yourself with the government’s demystifying vetting materials
  • Request any reasonable adjustments you need

Common eDV FAQs for job seekers

Who needs eDV clearance?

Only those who need a high security clearance level in the UK require eDV for government jobs and other roles that utilise top secret information.

How long does the process take?

It can take up to 18 months for the eDV process to be complete from start to finish.

Can I reapply if denied?

You can appeal the decision if your eDV is denied or reapply, but this means addressing the reason why you weren’t granted the clearance in the first place.