What we do
Operating in secret
MI6 is one of the most famous and widely portrayed intelligence organisations in the world, but our existence was not publicly confirmed until 1994. Even now most of what we do and the identity of those who work for us remains a secret.
Our core aims
What we do and how we operate
Disrupt the activity of hostile states
Protecting the UK from hostile state activity including espionage
Providing strategic advantage
Using intelligence to shape how the UK interacts on the international stage
Promoting the UK's prosperity
Using intelligence to inform strategic economic decisions and protect industry and innovation
Our work
We are tasked by the government. We recruit agents to spy for us – this means asking people to work with us who have access to information we need to keep the UK safe. We ask them to share that information with us. We protect agents’ identities. We analyse and verify the information we receive and supply this in the form of intelligence reports for government.
Intelligence Services Act
In 1994, the Intelligence Services Act formally defined our functions and responsibilities. Our function was defined as “To obtain and provide information about the actions or intentions of people outside the UK.” At the same time, the limits on when we could do this were defined as:
- In the interests of national security;
- In the interests of the economic well-being of the United Kingdom; or
- In support of the prevention or detection of serious crime.
Applying for and working at MI6
Careers
With a wide range of exciting roles no matter what stage you are at in your career and the qualifications you have, discover the opportunities open to you at MI6.
Woking at MI6
At MI6, you will be part of a supportive and inclusive workplace, and you will have access to a wide range of benefits. Find out about what it’s like to work for us.
How to apply
All applications to work for MI6 are made through our website. From vetting to helpful tips, find out exactly how you can apply for your unique role.
Support and membership
English