Royal Marines Commonwealth Applicants

Royal Marines Commandos are among the most highly trained, elite amphibious soldiers on the planet. They tackle our most challenging operations, using their unique skills and the all-important state of mind that separates them from every other force. Now, if you’re a Commonwealth citizen, you could be one of them, even if you aren’t a UK resident.

To apply, you will need to hold a valid passport and meet the eligibility criteria for your chosen role. If you’re an overseas applicant, you need to be age 18 or over and have a Visa. If you live in the UK, you can apply from age 16 and will need a biometric residency card.

Interested? Read on to find out how you could be part of a team unlike any other and start a life that’s packed with adventure.

Royal Marines Commonwealth Applicants

Accommodation

The Royal Marines will not provide you with accommodation whilst you're in the UK. You will need to have family or a sponsor who is willing to support you while you are in the UK.

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National service

All dual nationals must provide an official letter which states they have no obligation for service in their country of origin. Your country of origin national service will not go away if you join the Royal Marines. 

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Flights to the UK

You will need to pay for all travel to and from the UK.

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Unsuccessful application

If your application is unsuccessful, you may still have some time on your visa schedule which will allow you to try again, however this is up to the Armed Forces Careers Office (AFCO) you visit.

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Visa extension

If your Visa or stamp is running out and you are not successful in your application, the Royal Marines will not support your visa extension request, you will have to return to your country of origin. 

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AFCO travel expenses

The Royal Marines will not pay your travel expenses to the AFCO, they will only pay travel expenses for courses you have to attend if you are successful in the recruitment process.

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Security clearance

All Royal Marines candidates will need to receive security clearance before they are able to enter service.

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Expired Passport

If your Passport runs out prior to joining the Royal Marines, you will not be able to enter the service. All candidate must have a valid passport and Visa stamp.

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Swimming test

All applicants must be able to pass the Royal Marines Military Swimming Test as part of the joining process. Find out what that entails, here. 

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Joining the Royal Marines as a non-UK national

1

Bringing your family

Once you are a serving member of the Royal Marines, you are exempt from immigration controls.

That means you won’t need a visa to stay in the UK as long as you remain in service. This is the case from the day you start training.

Normal immigration rules will still apply to your family, so they could need a visa to visit the UK and may only be able to stay for a limited period of time. It's also important that your family meet the minimum English language requirements.  

2

Minimum income requirements

If you want to bring your family to the UK, you’ll need to meet minimum income requirements, which vary based on your family circumstances.

  • £18,600 gross salary needed to bring a partner
  • £22,400 to bring a partner and a child
  • +£2,400 for each additional child
  • £16,000 savings over this amount can count
  • £18,489 a rating starting salary after training
 
3

Visa costs

Once you meet the minimum income requirements, you will need to pay the appropriate visa costs. These include:

  • £1,532 per dependent for a five-year visa
  • £2,389 per dependent to permanently settle in the UK (2018/19) after five years of residency
  • £1,330 per dependent to gain UK citizenship by naturalisation (2018/19) after 12 months of holding permanent settlement

The Royal Marines cannot help you with any of these visa costs. Remember, choosing to settle permanently in the UK is entirely voluntary and is not a requirement. 

Choose your Royal Marines role

Royal Marines Musician

You’ll be a part of the world’s most versatile military music organisation. As the public face of the Naval Service, you’ll combine military duties with a professional music career. From playing for royalty, to welcoming political visitors, you’ll be just as exceptional as our Commandos. The very same you’ll work with on operations – and lead out on parade.

Royal Marines Commando

Could you become part of the world’s most elite amphibious force and wear the coveted green beret? It’s not for everyone. Digging deep to aim high, you’ll stop at nothing. In the most hostile environments, and on the most treacherous terrain. You’ll be as exceptional as the rest of your team, with the same ethos – and the same state of mind.

Royal Marines Bugler

You’ll be front and centre at some of our most important ceremonial occasions, and lead your band when on parade. In your distinctive white and blue uniform, you’ll be representing the Royal Marines at all times, all over the world. It’s an honour that goes beyond music, as you perform vital military duties in support of 3 Commando Brigade.

If you have questions, talk to us

call us +0044 1753 804 921

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