UK Veterans Badge Information
Discover how to apply for a veterans badge, see if you’re eligible or how to buy one outright.
We cover off all the information that you need to know about the Veterans Badge below.
Introduction: What Is A Veterans Badge?
The veterans badge is something that is issued to all personnel that have left their service.
When a soldier has officially left the Army, RAF, RM, or Navy they will receive a badge from the MOD.
Usually they will receive their badge in the post however it’s not unheard of to get one in person.
When Do You Get A Veterans Badge?
You get a veterans badge as soon as you officially leave the military and Glasgow are made aware.
How Long Should It Take To Get A Veterans Badge?
It should come through quite quickly.
We’ve heard reports of people waiting up to 12 months but in all honesty, that’s usually due to human error.
Paperwork gets lost, doesn’t arrive where it needs to or the veteran has entered the wrong delivery address.
How To Apply For A Veterans Badge In The UK
It’s really easy to apply for a veterans badge.
In fact, you’ll need to download this form, fill it out then send it off.
It usually takes a replacement veterans badge about 6-8 weeks to come through to you.
You need to give as much information as possible when filling out the form.
If you haven’t received your veterans badge within a few months, it might be worth contacting the following numbers:
Freephone (UK): 0800 085 3600
Telephone (from overseas): +44 141 224 3600
Veteran Badge Application Form
What Qualifies You As A Veteran In The UK?
It might be surprising but the limit is just serving one (1) day out of training.
Veterans are defined as anyone who has served for at least one day in Her Majesty’s Armed Forces (Regular or Reserve) or Merchant Mariners who have seen duty on legally defined military operations. “veteran” will be used to represent all former Armed Forces personnel.
You can apply for a badge if you were in the Army, Royal Navy, Royal Marines, RAF or volunteer or regular reserves.
Unfortunately, you will need to contact your own Government if you served in the armed forces of another country, even if you served alongside any of those UK services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Side Do You Wear A Veterans Badge?
On the left-hand side above the heart.
It’s a symbol of honour and respect which traditionally sits on the left-side of your chest.
Can I Get A Veterans ID Card?
If you haven’t got one already then no.
Please spend 3-minutes giving this a read: Veterans ID Card Application Guide.
Veterans Badge Replacement
If you’re in need of a replacement veterans badge then you can either apply for a replacement online by downloading this form which usually takes around 6-8 weeks or you can order one directly from Amazon and get it the next day (with Prime).
Can I Buy A Veterans Badge?
Yes. They’re for sale on Amazon for quite cheap.
They’re the real deal and buying them probably takes away the cost from taxpayers (admin, postage, etc.).
Author: Dean Michael