Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

National Security Vetting (NSVS) is required for access to government assets.

The Police National Vetting Service (PNVS) core purpose is for National Non-Police Personnel Vetting (NPPV) clearance.  We will only sponsor a DV clearance if this is required alongside an NPPV clearance.  Although DV applications are completed by NSVS, PNVS will hold and manage the clearance.

DV clearance is required for individuals who are to be employed in posts which; 

• Require them to have frequent and uncontrolled access to TOP SECRET assets or require any access to TOP SECRET codeword material
• While not in such posts, will be in a position to directly or indirectly bring about the same degree of damage
• Require frequent and uncontrolled access to category I nuclear material
• Require access to certain levels of classified material originating from another country or international organisation

Holders of DV clearance are expected to maintain high standards of personal and professional conduct, to safeguard classified information.

DV clearance is valid for 7 years – this includes NPPV 3, SC, DV, and 6 annual appraisals throughout the lifetime of the clearance. 

Clearance may be revoked if the applicant no longer requires access to sensitive information or if concerns arise.

For further information on NSVS clearances, please review our vetting levels and/or visit NSVS clearance levels.

As of 1st February 2025, you will no longer be able to request a DV application via the portal.  To ensure compliance with the Vetting APP all requests for DV must first be screened for eligibility.  This includes transfer and share requests.

If you believe your applicant requires NPPV and DV clearance, please complete our DV Eligibility Form, so that we can assess your applicants suitability to hold DV clearance with PNVS.

If you are accepted, you will be notified via email and advised to submit your applicant for NPPV 3 clearance via your portal.  Once the NPPV 3 clearance has been granted and appears under the clearances tab on your portal, you will need to email DV Enquiries, so PNVS can raise the DV application on your behalf.

Your applicant will have 30 days to complete their DV application with UKSV.  If you feel your applicant will not be able to complete their application within this timeframe, please email DV Enquiries before the application is requested. 

The DV application form is very comprehensive and will ask your applicant for sensitive personal information. 

The DV vetting process, can be extremely intrusive, your applicants finances will be scrutinized, and they will be subject to questions of an uncomfortable and difficult nature.  This is required as part of an in-depth vulnerability assessment. 

Please do not terminate DV leavers via the portal.  Please email DV Enquiries, providing the applicants full name, an identifier such as DOB or NI number, and their leaving date.  We will terminate the DV clearance on your behalf.

Your applicant has 30 days to submit their DV application to UKSV. 

If you are aware that your applicant will not be available to complete their application within this timeframe, please email DV Enquiries beforehand.