Applying to the SIA
To apply for the SIA licence you will need an SIA licence application form which can be obtained in several ways:
- By phoning the SIA on 0844 892 1025
- E-mail: info@sia.homeoffice.gov.uk
- From the SIA web site at SIA Application * (click the Request An Application Pack button)
- Complete on line at SIA e-Fill Application* (click the Register for e-Fill button)
*This part of the SIA web site may not work in some browsers, so if you cannot access the application try opening it through Internet Explorer.
The form can be quite confusing so if you need any help filling it in, please seek assistance from your training provider. There is also a booklet published by the SIA giving guidance notes on what they require. Click
here to download a copy.
However the easiest way of completing it is by registering for e-Fill (option 4 above). This will only let you move onto the next section when you have correctly completed the preceding one.
When completed you can either print it on your printer or ask the SIA to print and send it by post.
After completing the SIA application form you will need to attach a countersigned photograph. The counter-signatory will need to complete the relevant section on the form. Anybody over the age of 18 (who is not a relative) with a UK passport can do this for you.
You can now send off your completed application to the SIA. You must include payment of £220.00 (cheque, postal order, or debit/credit cards are all accepted) and the correct identification documents (click here to see the
Identity Documents Checklist).
Your licence is still subject to a criminal record and a five year address history check. (
We recommend that you send your SIA application by Royal Mail Special Delivery)
Usually within a week to ten days the SIA will return your identification documents with a letter advising that your licence application is being processed. This letter also has your unique tracker number on it which is useful as you use it to log on to the SIA website and check what stage your licence application has reached. You can also check using your full name and date of birth. Click here to go to the
Application Checker
The SIA aim to process a minimum of 80% of all correctly completed applications within 25 working days. This time starts from the day your application is entered onto the system and ends on the day they make their decision. The clock is stopped if your application fails validation and you are required to provide supporting documentation. The clock is reset when you send your application is received back by the SIA.
Complex applications (for example, applications subject to additional criminality or qualification enquiries and those requiring overseas criminality checks) may take longer than 25 working days.
Common problems which slow up the licensing process are:
- Incorrect qualification
- Application form incomplete or inaccurate
- Insufficient or incorrect identification documents
- Gaps in 5 year address history
- Criminal record check reveals unacceptable history
- Overseas criminal record check not included
- Card payment rejected by bank or cheque unpaid