Is BPSS Clearance Mandatory?
Yes, in many cases. BPSS screening is mandatory for individuals working in or on behalf of UK government departments, particularly where access to classified assets or secure facilities is required. It is often a baseline requirement for employment within:
- Defence and military contractors
- Civil service and government agencies
- IT, telecoms, and infrastructure suppliers to the public sector
- If your organisation is bidding for public sector contracts or placing contractors into sensitive environments, BPSS clearance will likely be required.
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How Long Does BPSS Clearance Last?
BPSS clearance does not expire in the traditional sense, but it is only valid as long as the individual remains in continuous employment within the same organisation.
If employment ends and then recommences within 12 months, then re-screening is not required.
If the break from employment (in the same role) is greater than 12 months, then BPSS rescreening is required.
If transferring to a different organisation BPSS rescreening is required.
Organisations are also advised to review and refresh BPSS screening periodically as part of their internal policies. A BPSS refresh screening (partial rescreening – convering only the BPSS checks needed) every 12 months, is considered best practice.
Read the official V7 2024 document here
BPSS Clearance Certificates
BPSS is a screening standard, not a formal security clearance and as such there is no centralised certificate or government-issued clearance document. However, National Screening Agency can issue a BPSS compliance certificate confirming that the BPSS checks have been completed in accordance with the official BPSS policy, which will be available for download on the client portal.
These BPSS certificates are useful for:
- Evidencing compliance to clients
- Proving readiness for contract work
- Supporting audit trails or tender requirements