Travel Allowance for Job Interviews Explained

Travel to civilian job interviews is covered as part of your resettlement provision, so the cost of getting to an interview shouldn't be the thing that stops you attending.

It sits alongside your Graduated Resettlement Time, which is up to 35 days before discharge, scaled by how long you've served.

You'll normally need evidence of the interview and prior approval, so it's a claim to make before you travel rather than a receipt to submit afterwards.

Worth separating from your discharge travel, which is a different entitlement. If you leave at your own request, travel to your civilian address isn't paid at all unless you have more than four years' service.

Who is eligible?

Service leavers in their resettlement period, with a confirmed interview to attend.

You'll usually need the invitation or appointment letter as evidence, and approval through your resettlement staff or the CTP before you book anything.

The exact process varies by service and unit, so check with your resettlement adviser rather than assuming — and do it early, because approval before travel is the part that's hard to fix retrospectively.

What benefits does this provide?

  • Part of your GRT package: Interview travel sits alongside Graduated Resettlement Time, of which service leavers get up to 35 days before discharge, scaled by length of service.

  • Separate from your discharge travel: Travel to your civilian address on discharge is a different entitlement — and if you discharge at your own request it is not paid at all unless you have more than 4 years' service.

  • Financial Support: Covers travel expenses for job interviews, reducing the financial burden on veterans seeking employment.

  • Accessibility: Enables veterans to attend interviews that may be located far from their current residence, broadening job opportunities.

  • Encouragement: Motivates veterans to apply for positions they might otherwise consider out of reach due to travel costs.

  • Networking Opportunities: Facilitates face-to-face meetings with potential employers, enhancing the chance to make a positive impression.

  • Confidence Boost: Provides reassurance that financial constraints won't hinder job search efforts, allowing veterans to focus on interview preparation.

  • Flexibility: Often covers various modes of transportation, accommodating different travel needs and preferences.

  • Supportive Transition: Assists in the transition from military to civilian employment by easing logistical challenges associated with job hunting.

How do I apply?

  • Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the criteria for travel allowance, typically available to military service leavers attending job interviews.
  • Gather Necessary Documents: Collect documents such as proof of military service, job interview invitation, and travel receipts.
  • Contact the Relevant Department: Reach out to the military transition office or veterans' affairs department for specific application forms and guidelines.
  • Complete the Application Form: Fill out the travel allowance application form accurately, providing all required information.
  • Submit the Application: Send the completed form and supporting documents to the designated office or online portal.
  • Follow Up: After submission, follow up with the office to confirm receipt and inquire about processing times.
  • Receive Allowance: Once approved, the travel allowance will be disbursed according to the department's procedures.

Common questions

Do the armed forces pay for travel to civilian job interviews?

Yes. Interview travel is part of your resettlement provision, alongside up to 35 days of Graduated Resettlement Time before discharge, scaled by your length of service.

Is travel home on discharge paid for?

That is a separate entitlement, and if you discharge at your own request it is not paid at all unless you have more than 4 years of service.

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Last reviewed 26 August 2026 by Brittany Belt, Co-founder and COO