Defence contractors guidance notes: what MOD’s IVCO guidance covers and what contractors must know

# What this guidance is and who it's for Defence publishes guidance titled "Defence Contractors Guidance Notes" aimed at MOD Facilities Security Clearance (FSC) contractors. The document is focused on International Visits Control Office (IVCO) procedures when visits involve protectively marked information related to defence projects, programmes or contracts. It also covers visits by foreign nationals to UK MOD establishments and MOD FSC sites.

# What's in the published material The page provides a single PDF file called "Defence Contractors Guidance Notes" (23 pages, 972 KB). The PDF contains IVCO guidance for dealing with:

• Visits by UK MOD FSC industry representatives to overseas locations where protectively marked information will be discussed.
• Visits by foreign nationals to UK MOD establishments and MOD FSC sites.

The GOV.UK page lists related MOD security resources and procedures, including references to Defence Security and Assurance Services, MOD Form 680 procedure guidance, and contact details for accessibility requests.

# Recent update history The guidance page was first published on 11 November 2011. The page shows updates over time with the most recent change being a new PDF attachment uploaded on 21 September 2026. Previous recorded updates include versions added in 2015 and 2011.

# Practical implications for contractors Contractors who handle protectively marked defence information should do the following:

• Use the guidance PDF as the starting point for planning any overseas travel that will include technical or project discussions tied to protectively marked material.
• Follow IVCO procedures for prior approvals and documentation that govern access to, and discussion of, protectively marked material outside the UK.

• Prepare for additional checks and permissions if hosting foreign nationals at UK MOD sites or receiving foreign visitors at FSC-cleared facilities.

# Accessibility and contact If the PDF is not suitable for your assistive technology, the page provides an email (ddc-modinternet@mod.gov.uk) to request an accessible format. When emailing, specify the format needed and the assistive technology you use.

# Related guidance and context The GOV.UK listing links to other MOD guidance pages that may be relevant to contractors, including event and exhibition support, the Design Approved Organization Scheme (DAOS), and defence employer recognition guidance. These related pages address practical engagement with MOD activities, competency schemes, and contractor support for events.

# How to use this page as a contractor

1. 1Download the 23-page PDF and read the sections on IVCO processes and protective marking handling before any planned visit involving MOD-related information.
2. 2Identify whether your visit requires formal IVCO approval or use of MOD Form 680 and follow the procedures in the PDF.
3. 3If accessibility is required, email the provided address with format details and assistive tech information.
4. 4Cross-reference the document with Defence Security and Assurance Services guidance and any MOD security advisor updates listed on the page.

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