Do you intend to renew your SIA licence? Do you know all of the measures you need to take? There are various aspects to consider when applying for licence renewal, such as when you should apply, the duration your new licence will last, and if you can work while waiting for your SIA licence to come.
We find out what’s necessary and when to help make your next SIA licence renewal simple and stress-free, whether you’re renewing your SIA licence individually or requesting assistance from your company!
Who Are The SIA?
In the United Kingdom, the Security Industry Authority (SIA) is a non-departmental governmental agency that supervises the private security company. Since 2003, it has been accountable for managing the sector in England, Wales, and Scotland under the Private Security Sector Act 2001. The primary goal of the SIA is to guarantee that persons working in the private security profession are appropriately trained, certified, and verified for their responsibilities. They provide licences to those who fulfil its criteria and perform background checks on people and companies in the industry to make certain they follow its policies. The SIA’s regulation works to enhance safety for the public, deter crime, and enhance industry standards.
SIA Licence Renewal Process
To start the online renewal procedure, you have to find the appropriate documentation and have it four months before your existing SIA licence expires. We’ve outlined all of the steps in order that will render the renewal process as quick, simple, and straightforward as possible.
Also Read: How to get an SIA licence in 2024?
1) Check your eligibility:
In order to be eligible to renew your SIA licence, you need to have worked in a relevant position for the last three years and completed the appropriate training for your employment role. You must additionally have no outstanding criminal convictions. If you fulfil the qualifying requirements, you may begin the renewal process by filling out the secure online application form and paying the renewal money. The SIA will conduct checks to ensure your eligibility and, if required, may seek further information or evidence.
2) Examine the expiration date
Determine the expiry date on the SIA licence and start the renewal procedure as soon as possible. It is crucial to understand that without a valid SIA licence, you are unable to serve in the private security profession.
3) Complete the top-up/upskilling training
Before renewing your licence, you are required to finish the necessary top-up training. You will either have to do a door supervisor top-up course or a security guard upskilling course depending on the position you hold. For further information on the training requirements for your licence, see the SIA website.
4) Log in to the SIA online account:
Visit the SIA website to log in to your SIA online account or register for an account. Submit the data requested that corresponds to the current licence information. If your company is completing and paying for your renewal, you must initially link your SIA account to theirs. You have to accept the applicant’s email request to link accounts before they can submit or pay for your application.
5) Enter personal information in the application form
You will be required to give personal data that matches the information from your prior SIA licence application to authenticate your identity. After logging in, you must complete the application form. Personal information such as your name, address, and contact information will be needed. You have to give information about your current SIA licence, like the expiry date. If your photograph is expired (a photo has an expiration date of 8 years and 8 months), you must go to a post office to get a new one.
Also Read: How to become an SIA licensed security guard in the UK?
6) Apply for Renewal
When logging into your account, go to the ‘Licences’ tab, then ‘Actions’, and ‘Renew’. Fill out parts 1-9 and double-check your renewal before mailing it. You can now start filling out your renewal application. On the SIA renewal application screen, you will then be given instructions to follow. After completing the application, you will be allowed to verify it to confirm that all submitted information is true and valid before submitting it.
7) Renewal payment:
The current fee for renewing your SIA licence is £184. The fee can be paid with a credit or debit card. After the submission of the renewal application by you or your employer, you will receive an email asking for payment of the SIA licence fee. Submitting on time can help complete your application rapidly, so make sure you or your company have the money accessible before completing your application.
8) Checks
The SIA will investigate your criminal history, eligibility to work in the UK, and if your photo is suitable. If you receive an email about these checks, please react right away. Then, the SIA will examine your criminal record using the information you supplied in your application. According to current SIA guidelines, irrespective of whether you have a criminal past, you may still be qualified to obtain an SIA licence; what counts mainly is the date and type of violations on your record. Any crimes that indicate you may be a threat to the public or that you possess characteristics that are incompatible with the private security industry may result in your renewal being denied. You can check out the Government’s criminal record indicators to see if your past convictions will have an impact on your SIA licence application.
9) Decision
The SIA will inform you if your renewal application was successful or not. If the application is approved, the SIA will renew the licence and issue a new one. If the application is refused, the SIA will clarify the cause for the denial and allow the applicant 21 days to respond. If the renewal application is approved, the SIA will issue a letter and a licence card in 14 days, and the case of appeal will be reviewed in a Magistrates Court.
Also Read: 11 Frequently Asked Door Supervisor Interview Questions
10) Get your new SIA licence
When your renewal application is approved, you will receive your new SIA licence in the mail. With a renewed licence, you are permitted to operate in security companies.
FAQs Regarding SIA Licence Renewal
What Can I Do If My Application Is Rejected?
The SIA will contact you via email to clarify why your application was denied. You will have 21 days to respond from the date of their decision letter.
Your Employer Can Help You Renew Your SIA Licence
The SIA provides options via which your employer can renew your licence on your behalf. These services, known as Licence Assist and Licence Management, are accessible only to SIA Approved Contractors.
Most private security companies are required to be SIA Approved Contractors, which indicates that they have been certified by the SIA and are capable of offering security services.
Revocation of SIA Licence
The SIA may cancel a licence if it is utilised for fraudulent documents and identity, used by another individual to perform licensable conduct, lacks the training requirements stated on the application, gets an indictment, caution, warning, ultimate/conditional discharge, or admonition for a relevant crime, rejects or abandons to undergo the training, or retains information indicating that the individual is not sufficiently qualified to hold a licence. The SIA will notify you of their decision to withdraw your licence. If you do not react within 21 days, the decision to cancel your licence will become effective simultaneously. If you do submit a response, the SIA will notify you of their decision. The SIA will let you know of their decision when you submit a response.
Also Read: 11 Frequently Asked Security Guard Interview Questions
Suspension of SIA Licence
SIA Licence suspensions take effect immediately, preventing you from legally working in any licensable field. The SIA will look into suspension only if they are convinced that there is a clear threat to the safety of the public if they do not act. If the SIA decides to suspend your licence, you will get a letter outlining the reasons for their decision, which will take effect instantly. You have 21 days to submit an appeal to a Magistrates’ Court or inform them of any factual inaccuracies in their evaluation. A suspended licence will stay suspended until the problem is addressed.
What is the cost of renewing an SIA licence?
An SIA licence costs £190 to apply for and the same fee to renew. Nevertheless, if you already possess yet another licence for a different licensable activity and if it has a duration of at least four months before it expires, you can get a 50% discount on your renewal. The substantial discount shall be given to the Renewal Fee only if both the foregoing conditions are satisfied.
What is the time frame for SIA licence renewal?
The duration it takes to renew a Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence varies based on various factors, including the procedure of renewal, the accuracy of the application, and any further checks or inspections needed by the SIA. The SIA generally advises clients to give up to 25 working days for the renewal application to be approved, nonetheless, this may be longer or shorter depending on the specifics of the case. The SIA may be able to process the renewal application quicker if it can be submitted online and all relevant details are provided. To minimise any potential problems or interruptions to your job, it is essential to submit a renewal request well in advance of the expiration date.
When you have completed the renewal of the licence process, it will require just 14 days for your application to be analysed and your new SIA licence to be mailed. It’s also important to note that even if you’ve previously held an SIA licence, you might not be eligible for one now. There are numerous reasons why your renewal may be denied, however, you will be informed and allowed to react or appeal your application.
Also Read: Checklist Before Booking An SIA Security Guard Course
What kind of documentation is required to renew my SIA licence?
The documentation needed to renew your Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence may differ based on your specific needs and the type of licence you acquire. You must provide the current SIA licence number, personal identity, evidence of address, and any extra documents necessary for the individual SIA licence you are renewing. If any of your personal information has changed since your previous licensing application, you must submit proof of any changes. You can renew your SIA licence online or by mail and the documentation needed can vary significantly based on the method used. You must supply original copies of essential documents for compliance with criminal record inspections.
There are two types of documents: Group A and Group B. You may be required to give an original copy of your current and valid UK passport, a UK birth certificate, or a driving licence photocard issued by the DVLA in the UK in Group A. Group B seeks bank statements from the previous three months, electricity bills from the past three months, and council tax accounts from the last 12 months.
It is essential to have as many required documents on hand as possible to guarantee a smooth renewal procedure.
Can I go to work while my SIA licence is being renewed?
You may continue to work while awaiting the arrival of your new SIA licence as long as your present one has not yet run out of validity. However, this might not be an option if your current SIA licence is expired and you desire to pursue employment in a security position. Many companies demand a current SIA licence, even though some employers will accept an SIA acknowledgement letter that your licence is currently being processed.
Get your SIA licence renewed With Agile Security Training!
If you follow the procedures stated, renewing your SIA licence in 2023 may be an easy and hassle-free process. The Security Industry Authority (SIA) is accountable for managing private security companies in the United Kingdom. To renew your SIA licence, you must first confirm your eligibility, identify the expiration date, complete any mandatory training, and then fill out the online application form. After the submission of your application, the SIA will conduct various checks, including a criminal history check, and communicate their decision. If your renewal application is approved, you will be mailed and informed about your new SIA licence. Agile Training offers SIA-licensed-linked certifications for people looking to work as Door Supervisors, Security Guards, or CCTV Operators in the UK’s private security market. If you’re seeking to renew your SIA licence, we’ve got you covered. Make an appointment with us right away to expedite your renewal procedure.
