Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps his Department is taking to inform foreign or commonwealth citizens currently serving in HM Forces of the eligibility criteria and steps they need to take in order to apply for indefinite leave to remain in the UK following their discharge.

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) takes a number of steps to ensure our Commonwealth and Gurkha personnel are informed about the process for achieving indefinite leave to remain once they leave Service. It is signposted on all the Service websites for recruits to understand prior to application, so they can make an informed choice about joining the British Armed Forces. Guidance is provided to all units to help them support their Commonwealth and Gurkha personnel throughout their career in the Armed Forces, including signposting them to sources of qualified immigration advice, to ensure that they have the information and support they need to make decisions about their and their families' immigration status, including prior to discharge. This information is also included in the Service Leavers Pack, which is provided to all those coming to the end of their careers. MOD continues to work with the Joining Forces Credit Union to provide financial education, savings packages and loan packages to help non-UK personnel pay for visa costs, should they wish to remain and settle in the United Kingdom after their service.