An HM Armed Forces Veteran Card is a way to prove that you served in the UK armed forces. The card can make it quicker and easier to apply for support as a veteran.

It’s free to apply.

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.

Check what you can do with a Veteran Card.

Who can get an HM Armed Forces Veteran Card

You can apply if you were in the regulars or reserves for the:

• Royal Navy

• Army

• Royal Air Force (RAF)

• Royal Marines

If you served in another group in the UK armed forces, you may still be able to get a card. You can check when you apply online or when you call to request a postal form.

You cannot apply if you served:

• in the armed forces of another country

• alongside the UK armed forces, for example in the Canadian Navy or Royal Australian Air Force

What you’ll need

When you apply, you’ll be asked for:

• your service number for your last period of service

• your National Insurance number

• 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 on your own behalf. If you’re getting a card for someone else, apply by post.