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Careers / Joining options
Joining from Army or RAF
Careers / Joining options

Joining from Army or RAF

Whether you’re used to being at the heart of the action, maintaining state-of-the-art-kit or providing essential operational support, as a service leaver you have a unique set of knowledge, skills and expertise that our nation depends on.

Officers of the bridge check their peripherals. HMS Medway arrives in Jacksonville, Florida for a scheduled maintenance period following a successful patrol.

Find your profession

You may already know where you thrive. Or perhaps you’re looking for a new challenge. With several professions to choose from, there’s a place for you.

A life in the Royal Navy is a rewarding one filled with adventure, possibilities – and job security. Our world-class training prepares you for whatever you choose.

Find a role
Royal Navy sailors on board HMS Defender during a replenishment at sea with USNS Patuxent.

Pay and benefits

Regardless of your profession, you’ll get a competitive salary from day one. And because you’re rewarded on merit, your salary will develop as much as you want it to.

An enviable benefits package, including an excellent pension scheme, six weeks’ paid holiday, and free healthcare means more of your money stays in your pocket.

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Ready to join?

Joining the Royal Navy from the Army or RAF requires a few extra steps. All applications carefully considered on a case-by-case basis

Here’s how it works.

step 1

Check your eligibility

First, we‘ll need to check that you’re eligible to transfer:

  • Applicants must meet the current Royal Navy regulations regarding tattoos, this includes religious and/or cultural tattoos.
  • You should be ‘Medically Fully Deployable’ when you apply.
  • Any career warning or rehabilitation period will need to be lifted or spent before you can apply.
  • The recruitment process can only be done in the UK. If you’re serving overseas, we can’t cover any travel costs.
step 2

Request a transfer

  • You can do this through your Regimental System (Army) or Divisional System (RAF)
  • If approved by either APC Glasgow or RAF Manning, the application will be forwarded to Recruitment & Attraction (R&A) for further consideration.
step 3

Submit your application

  • If approved by CNR, your application will be sent to the Rejoiner and Interservice Transfer Team (RISTT) for processing
  • You’ll be contacted through your unit to formally apply on the RISTT portal.
step 4

Approval

  • Once approved, you’ll be given an offer of employment. This includes details of your pay, contract length, and any required training.
step 5

Selection

If you accept the offer, your local AFCO assigned recruiter will ensure you meet the standards required for Naval Service re-entry. This includes:

  • Defence Aptitude Assessment (DAA) if required
  • Video interview to assess your suitability for the Royal Navy.
  • Medical Scrutiny Board held by service Entry Medical Cell (SEMC). You’ll need to authorise access to your previous service medical records as part of this
  • Proof of physical fitness standard
  • Specific Royal Navy Branch Aptitudes if required
  • You’ll also need to pass a Security Check (SC) / transfer existing SC.

 

step 6

Start your training

  • We’ll provide details of your transfer date
  • This is usually a 3-day transfer package at HMS Raleigh, followed by a bespoke training package, depending on your level of experience.
  • We’ll let you know any other details, including any kit you may need.
What's training like?
flight deck handlers dressed in ochre kit with high viz banding relaxing after a busy session on the flight deck of HMS Prince Of Wales

Got a question?

Need help finding your ideal role?
Our virtual recruiter is available to answer your questions 24 hours a day

Apply now

Find your place in the Royal Navy. Make friends for life, learn new skills and experience the world.

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Not ready to apply?

Register your interest today and we’ll be in touch to help you find your fit.

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