Local forces, including police, qualified for many of the clasps, as could units of the Indian Army prior to 1947.

Where a minimum qualifying period was laid down for a clasp, it did not apply to those killed or wounded due to operations, or to those decorated for bravery or distinguished conduct, including a mention in dispatches and a Queen's Commendation.

132 of 1925 extended eligibility for this clasp to cover further operations in Kurdistan under Air Marshal Sir J.M.

As a result of the 2012 Independent Medal Review conducted by Sir John Holmes, from 1 October 2014 the qualifying period was reduced to 90 days service, to bring it into line with the Africa General Service Medal awarded for the Kenya campaign.

[1] The Malaya clasp could be awarded with the George VI (2nd type) or with either Elizabeth II version.