SIA Licence Updates 2025: What Security Operatives Need to Know About Digital ID, Right to Work, and New Rules
The Security Industry Authority has rolled out major changes throughout 2025. These updates affect every security operative in the UK. From training requirements to licensing criteria, the rules have shifted significantly.
You need to understand these changes now. They impact your licence renewal, your eligibility, and your career prospects. Explore our SIA security training course Birmingham or head to the Zems Academy homepage to compare options.
Training Requirements Changed in April 2025
The SIA introduced mandatory refresher training on April 1, 2025. Door supervisors and security guards must complete this qualification when renewing their licences.
This isn't optional. It's required.
What You Need:
- Current Emergency First Aid at Work qualification
- Completed refresher training course
- Valid SIA licence for renewal
The refresher training covers updated security practices, legal changes, and modern technology. Training providers require your Emergency First Aid certificate before enrollment.
Book your refresher training early. Don't wait until your licence expires. Find an SIA top-up course near me or book a security guard class near me.
Licensing Criteria Overhaul – December 1, 2025
The SIA implements comprehensive licensing updates on December 1, 2025. These changes affect all new applications and renewals from that date.
New Relevant Offences Include:
- Human trafficking and modern slavery
- Revenge porn
- Female genital mutilation
- Domestic abuse
- Immigration offences
- Public order offences
- Tax evasion
- Company law offences
The SIA consulted over 3,300 industry professionals before implementing these changes. The feedback shaped stricter standards for public protection.
Tougher Criminality Rules:
- Sexual offences result in automatic licence refusal
- Child abuse offences require exceptional mitigation
- Prison sentences over 48 months need substantial proof of rehabilitation
- Custodial sentences over 12 months trigger additional checks
New Criminal Criteria for SIA Licences (Effective 1 December 2025)
The SIA is expanding the list of criminal offences considered relevant for licensing decisions starting 1 December 2025. This move—a result of a wide-reaching public consultation—toughens the approach to criminality and makes the rules around the 'fit and proper' test clearer for everyone in the industry.
From 1 December 2025, all new and renewal licence applications must meet these updated criminal criteria. Anyone applying for, or renewing, an SIA licence should check the latest licensing criteria before starting the process to ensure they’re still eligible.
Further guidance will be provided by the SIA before these changes take effect. Read the official consultation findings here and more about what’s changing here.
Extended Overseas Criminal Record Checks
The overseas criminal record requirement extends from five to ten years.
If you lived abroad for six or more continuous months in the past decade, you must provide overseas criminal records. This aligns SIA standards with visa requirements for education, health, and social care.
Plan ahead. Obtaining overseas records takes time. Upskill with CCTV courses Birmingham while you gather documents.
Digital ID and Right to Work Changes
The UK government launched a mandatory digital identity scheme in September 2025. This affects all Right to Work checks and government services.
Key Changes:
- Physical Biometric Residence Permits expired October 31, 2024
- Workers must use UK Visas and Immigration online accounts
- Electronic visas require share codes for employer verification
- Digital identity credentials become mandatory by July 2029
Security operatives need valid immigration status verification. The digital system replaces physical documents.
Check your immigration status online. Update your employer verification documents. Advance with close protection training UK if you plan to step into higher-responsibility roles.
What This Means for Security Operatives
These changes create higher standards across the security industry. The SIA aims to improve public protection and professional credibility.
Immediate Actions Required:
- Complete refresher training if renewing your licence
- Obtain current Emergency First Aid certification
- Gather overseas criminal records if applicable
- Verify your digital immigration status
- Review your criminal history against new criteria
Before December 1, 2025:
- Assess your eligibility under updated criteria
- Seek professional guidance for complex cases
- Plan your renewal timeline carefully
Current licence holders aren't affected retroactively unless the SIA receives new information or you apply for renewal.
How Zems Academy Supports You Through Changes
Zems Academy stays current with all SIA updates. We provide up-to-date training that meets 2025 requirements.
Our SIA Training Includes:
- Refresher courses for door supervisors and security guards
- Emergency First Aid at Work certification
- Guidance on licensing requirements
- Support for complex applications
We understand the new rules. Our trainers explain how changes affect your specific situation. Start your CSCS course Birmingham to meet site access requirements.
Training Available:
- Level 2 Door Supervision Refresher (2 days, £220)
- Level 2 Security Officer Refresher (1 day, £180)
- Level 3 Emergency First Aid (1 day, £100)
Book early. Refresher training demand increases as renewal dates approach.
Contact Zems Academy for personalized guidance on your SIA licence requirements.
Stay Compliant and Career-Ready
The security industry evolves constantly. Professional development keeps you competitive and compliant. Explore cyber security courses Birmingham to broaden your skills and employability.
Success Strategies:
- Complete training before licence expiry
- Maintain current certifications
- Understand new eligibility criteria
- Seek professional guidance when needed
- Plan renewals well in advance
The SIA's 2025 updates raise industry standards. Higher standards create better career opportunities for qualified professionals.
Your Next Steps:
- Assess your current licence status
- Book required training courses
- Gather necessary documentation
- Contact Zems Academy for support
Don't risk licence delays or rejections. The new rules are strict, but manageable with proper preparation.
Visit Zems Academy for comprehensive SIA training and guidance. We help security professionals navigate regulatory changes successfully.
The security industry needs qualified, compliant professionals. These updates ensure public safety while creating opportunities for dedicated operatives.
Book your training today. Stay ahead of the requirements. Build your professional future with confidence.
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