How to Join MI6

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

MI6, formally known as the Secret Intelligence Service (SIS), is the UK’s intelligence agency that provides foreign intelligence to the government. SIS collects secret intelligence and conducts operations across the globe to help detect and prevent crimes, as well as protect the national security of the United Kingdom. Joining the SIS, or MI6, requires that you meet certain eligibility requirements and complete a long and grueling application process. But getting started is actually really easy: simply check out their website to start your application!

Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Meeting the Eligibility Requirements

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/ce\/Join-MI6-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Join-MI6-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/ce\/Join-MI6-Step-1.jpg\/aid11221928-v4-728px-Join-MI6-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The Secret Intelligence Service (SIS) is committed to protecting British interests at home and abroad. In order to join MI6, you must be a British citizen and have lived in the UK for the majority of the 10 years prior to your application to join the agency. The easiest way to confirm your nationality is to have a UK passport that describes you as a British citizen. [1]
    • You can still be eligible if you studied abroad, served in the military, or lived overseas with your parents during the 10 years prior to your application.
    • You may also still be eligible if only 1 of your parents are a British citizen.

    Tip: If you don’t have a passport, you can apply for a certificate of entitlement by visiting https://www.gov.uk/right-of-abode .

  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/47\/Join-MI6-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Join-MI6-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/47\/Join-MI6-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/aid11221928-v4-728px-Join-MI6-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    To reflect the negative effects of illegal drug use on behavior, judgment, and physical and mental health, MI6 has a strict drug policy. Drug abuse can prevent you from getting a security clearance that would allow you to be an agent. If you want to join MI6, you should refrain from using any illegal drugs from the point of your application onwards. [2]
    • The point of your application refers to the date you submit your application.
    • Even if a drug is legal in a different country, if it’s illegal in the UK, you can’t use it if you want to be an agent.
    • Previous drug use will not necessarily prevent you from joining, but you need to be honest and open and mention your previous use if you are asked about it during the recruitment process.
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/ce\/Join-MI6-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Join-MI6-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/ce\/Join-MI6-Step-3.jpg\/aid11221928-v4-728px-Join-MI6-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Part of your security check will involve interviews with people knew you professionally and in an educational setting. You’ll be expected to provide references for the agency to investigate. Compile a list of people and their contact information so you’re prepared. [3]
    • Tell anybody that you include on the list that they may be contacted by the SIS to ask questions about you so they expect it.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d6\/Join-MI6-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Join-MI6-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d6\/Join-MI6-Step-4.jpg\/aid11221928-v4-728px-Join-MI6-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you do work for the SIS, you’ll have access to a wide range of highly sensitive information. Because of that, you’ll need to pass the SIS security clearance, which can take up to 3 months to complete. The process will take an in-depth look at your life, including your personal relationships and finances. [4]
    • Be honest and direct during the process. If you try to conceal anything during the security check, you will be banned from applying.
    5. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Applying to the Agency

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/85\/Join-MI6-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Join-MI6-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/85\/Join-MI6-Step-5.jpg\/aid11221928-v4-728px-Join-MI6-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Visit https://www.sis.gov.uk/explore-careers.html to apply to join the SIS. To find out what jobs are available at SIS, you need to visit their website to start your application process. The application process itself may take up to 6 months, but starting your application is as easy as clicking on a link. [5]
    • Candidates will face a thorough security vetting, assessments, and tests before they’re offered a job.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/59\/Join-MI6-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Join-MI6-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/59\/Join-MI6-Step-6.jpg\/aid11221928-v4-728px-Join-MI6-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Operational Officers are the front line of the SIS. They work to collect and validate intelligence, build relationships with other people to yield valuable intelligence, and any other operational efforts to keep the country safe and secure. Choose the Operational Officers option on the website to start your application.
    • There are a variety of roles both overseas and in the UK available as an Operational Officer.
    • Intelligence officers receive training throughout their careers to stay up to date on the latest technologies and developments.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/cb\/Join-MI6-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Join-MI6-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/cb\/Join-MI6-Step-7.jpg\/aid11221928-v4-728px-Join-MI6-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Technology is behind everything that the SIS does. The Science and Technology division ensures that the SIS operates effectively, provides reliable information to the government, and stays connected to their intelligence partners. Click on the “Science & Technology” option on the SIS website to apply. [6]
    • You’ll also receive training that you can use to work in the technology field whenever you leave the SIS.
    • If you have a background or interest in science and technology, this may be the division for you.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/34\/Join-MI6-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Join-MI6-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/34\/Join-MI6-Step-8.jpg\/aid11221928-v4-728px-Join-MI6-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Bring your judgment, experience, and organizational skills to help support an operational team as they gather intelligence or a corporate team that helps ensure the SIS runs efficiently. The SIS wants an admin team that is adaptable and able to respond to the changing priorities of the agency. Follow the link for Business Support Officers to apply. [7]
    • Previous administrative experience can help your application but isn’t a requirement.
    • Most Business Support Officers work in the UK, but there are a few overseas positions you could work your way towards.
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/12\/Join-MI6-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Join-MI6-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/12\/Join-MI6-Step-9.jpg\/aid11221928-v4-728px-Join-MI6-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    It takes a lot of people to keep the SIS and its facilities running smoothly. From the security guards monitoring the facilities to the call operators who take and route incoming calls, every role is vital to keep the agency fully operational. Select the Trades and Services option on the website to apply to work for the division. [8]
    • You don't need to have any formal qualifications to apply and work for trades and services.
    • Previous work experience is recommended, but not required.
  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e2\/Join-MI6-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Join-MI6-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e2\/Join-MI6-Step-10.jpg\/aid11221928-v4-728px-Join-MI6-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Corporate Services is a division with wide-ranging responsibilities. From records maintenance experts to commercial lawyers and compliance officers, the corporate team at SIS is critical to ensuring the effective running of day-to-day operations. Apply by following the link on the SIS website. [9]
    • The various roles at Corporate Services mean the qualifications can vary depending on the position.
  7. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7f\/Join-MI6-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Join-MI6-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/7f\/Join-MI6-Step-11.jpg\/aid11221928-v4-728px-Join-MI6-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Much of the intelligence gathered by SIS needs to be translated, analyzed, and converted into usable information for operational teams and to inform the government. Based in London, Language Specialists work with intelligence service partners to help protect the UK. Click on the Language Specialists link on the SIS website to start your application. [10]
    • You need to have either a formal language qualification or experience with the language that you apply for.

    Tip: You should have experience spending some time in a country that speaks the target language that you apply for. For example, if you apply to be an Arabic linguist, you should have spent some time in a country that speaks Arabic.

  8. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/fa\/Join-MI6-Step-12.jpg\/v4-460px-Join-MI6-Step-12.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/fa\/Join-MI6-Step-12.jpg\/aid11221928-v4-728px-Join-MI6-Step-12.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    When you have finished the application and vetting process, if the SIS is interested in hiring you, they will send you a formal letter offering you a position. Take some time to look over the letter and decide if you’re ready to dedicate years of your life to the agency. If you are ready to join MI6, respond by accepting the offer. [11]
    9. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Be a Secret Agent
      How to
      Work at a US Embassy
      How to
      Get a Job With the United Nations
      How to
      Join NASA
      How to
      Join the NSA
      How to
      Become a CIA Agent
      How to
      Become an FBI Agent
      How to
      Become a Warrant Officer
      How to
      Become a Forest Ranger
      How to
      Join the SWAT Team
      How to
      Become a District Attorney
      How to Get a Security Clearance
      How to
      Become a U.S. Ambassador
      How to
      Apply for USPS Jobs
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.sis.gov.uk/eligibility.html
      2. ↑ https://www.sis.gov.uk/eligibility.html
      3. ↑ https://www.sis.gov.uk/clearing-you-through-security.html
      4. ↑ https://www.sis.gov.uk/eligibility.html
      5. ↑ https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/1831866/mi6-job-how-to-apply-money-who-can/
      6. ↑ https://www.sis.gov.uk/science-and-technology.html
      7. ↑ https://www.sis.gov.uk/business-support-officers.html
      8. ↑ https://www.sis.gov.uk/trades-and-services.html
      9. ↑ https://www.sis.gov.uk/corporate-services.html
      1. ↑ https://www.sis.gov.uk/language-specialist.html
      2. ↑ https://www.sis.gov.uk/application-process-ls.html

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 56,822 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement