Two workers in reflective vests converse in a parking garage, one smiling, with keys and a device clipped to his vest.

Authorised Signatory FAQs

What is an Authorised Signatory?

An Authorised Signatory (AS) is the person within an organisation who is responsible for sponsoring, verifying, and submitting individual airport ID pass applications.

They:

Operate at a day-to-day, operational level
Act as the control point for each individual application
Must make sure every application is accurate, justified, and compliant

The FAQs below will guide you through the responsibilities, training, vetting and more.

FAQs

What are the main responsibilities of an Authorised Signatory?

An Authorised Signatory is responsible for:

Sponsoring airport ID pass applications
They submit applications confirming the individual’s need for access.
Verifying applicant suitability
They ensure that the individual is suitable and has passed the required checks.
Ensuring accuracy and completeness
They check that all details and documents are correct before submission.
Applying security standards
They follow the MAG Standard in every application.
Managing individual pass changes
They handle renewals, amendments, and updates for pass holders.

What checks and requirements apply to the Authorised Signatory?

You must:

Be at least the equivalent to an Airport ID pass holder
Complete background screening equivalent to an Airport ID pass holder
Attend mandatory initial training and refresher training
Be based in the UK

Do you need training before I can act as a Signatory?

Yes - you must:

Attend initial Authorised Signatory training
Complete any refresher training required by MAG

What authority does the Authorised Signatory have?

You have the authority to:

Submit airport ID pass applications
Confirm access levels
Sponsor individuals for access to restricted areas

However, you must always act:

Independently
Based on evidence
In line with security requirements and the MAG Standard

What is your responsibility for vetting?

You are responsible for ensuring:

All required background checks are completed
Supporting documents are valid and accurate
The applicant is suitable and low risk from a security perspective

What happens if you submit incorrect or poor-quality applications?

If you don't meet required standards:

Your applications will be rejected
You will be required to retrain if your submissions are constantly rejected
You could be suspended or removed as an Authorised Signatory
You could be subject to prosecution or fines for false information

What are the most common rejection reasons with Authorised Signatory application submissions?

Information on the application not matching information on the documentation supplied
Missing documentation, such as ID documents, Criminal Record Check (CRC) certificate etc
Unsigned or out of date ID documents
Missing information, such as: Employment reference dates, ID document dates etc
Poor understanding and lack of clarity of the role and access requirement

Can an Authorised Signatory allow someone else to complete applications on their behalf?

Yes they can, however; they must:

Personally review and verify all applications
Take full responsibility for what is submitted
Personally submit the application

What is your role in security risk (insider threat)?

You'll act as a key control point to prevent:

Unsuitable individuals gaining access
Incorrect or fraudulent applications

You must ensure:

Only those with a genuine need are sponsored
Risks are properly assessed before the application submission is made

What is the difference between an Authorised Signatory and a Nominated Officer?

Authorised Signatory
They manage:

Individual applications and decisions
The organisation’s legal responsibilities of membership of the AIC scheme

Nominated Officer
They're responsible for:

Overall organisational compliance
For the nomination and ongoing management of all Authorised Signatories

You can find more information within our comparison table.

ID Centre contact details

East Midlands

Phone number
01332 852968

Email
EMAPassOffice@

eastmidlandsairport.com

Address
Address EMA ID Centre

Building 113

Viscount Road

Castle Donington

DE74 2SA

Manchester

Phone number
01614 893545

Email
Security.pass.office@

manairport.co.uk

Address
Manchester ID Centre

Manchester Airport

Manchester

M90 1XQ

Stansted

Phone number
01279 662500

Email
Idcentre@

stanstedairport.com

Address
Stansted ID Centre
Ground Floor
Enterprise House
Stansted Airport
Essex
CM24 1QW

Two people are sitting and talking in a modern office with a green plant wall. The woman is smiling and wearing glasses.

Work with us

Expert airport vetting without the admin burden

We complete your background checks for you
No minimum commitments, no hidden fees
96% first-time success rate vs the 75% industry average

Find out more