Janice Lozano
If you're an international student interested in pursuing a career in federal intelligence agencies such as the FBI, CIA, DHS, or DoD, you may be wondering if you can obtain a security clearance certificate. A security clearance is a comprehensive background check for individuals seeking positions with access to sensitive or classified information relevant to US national security. While non-US citizens are generally ineligible for security clearances, there may be exceptions for specific situations. Limited Access Authorization (LAA) may be granted if a non-US citizen possesses unique skills or expertise urgently required, and the government must prove that a current clearance holder is unavailable. The process of obtaining a security clearance can be challenging and lengthy, and it involves an interview and an extensive review of your background, including social media activity.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Who can obtain a security clearance? | Only U.S. citizens can obtain a security clearance, according to Executive Order 12968. However, there may be exceptions for non-U.S. citizens with unique skills or expertise. |
| Requirements for non-U.S. citizens | Requests for non-U.S. citizens to obtain access to classified information must include a Letter of Justification (LOJ), proof of foreign citizenship, a copy of the disclosure determination or export license, and any available foreign security clearance certificate. |
| Who issues security clearances? | Security clearances can only be issued by approved federal agencies, such as the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). |
| Why is a security clearance needed? | A security clearance is required for positions within federal intelligence agencies that handle classified national security information. It ensures the confidentiality and protection of sensitive information. |
| Who needs a security clearance? | Individuals seeking positions with access to classified information must obtain a security clearance. This includes roles in agencies such as the FBI, CIA, DHS, and DoD, as well as private sector defense contractors. |
| Process of obtaining a security clearance | To acquire a security clearance, an individual must be sponsored by a cleared contractor or government agency employer. The process involves an extensive background check, including an interview to assess the candidate's suitability and any potential security concerns. |
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What You'll Learn
Non-US citizens and security clearances
Generally, non-US citizens cannot obtain a security clearance. Executive Order 12968, Access to Classified Information, states that only US citizens are eligible to access classified information. However, there are exceptions to this rule in specific situations. A Limited Access Authorisation (LAA) may be granted if a non-US citizen possesses a unique skill or expertise that is urgently needed. The National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM) and Industrial Security Letter (ISL) outline the procedures for LAA, which is only issued at the Secret level or below.
Requests for non-US citizens to obtain access to classified information must include a Letter of Justification (LOJ), endorsed by the program executive officer or contract official. This must be sent to the DSS with proof of foreign citizenship (passport), a copy of the disclosure determination or export license, and a foreign security clearance certificate (if available).
The personnel vetting process is used to assess individuals seeking to obtain security clearances to access classified national security information. This process is used to determine an individual's suitability for government employment or to work as a contractor, as well as their eligibility for access to classified information.
It is important to note that the process and requirements for security clearances may vary depending on the specific government agency or department involved. Each situation is unique, and there may be additional factors to consider for non-US citizens seeking security clearances.
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The Department of Defense (DoD) and security clearances
The Department of Defense (DoD) is one of the federal agencies that can issue security clearances. Security clearances are required for many positions within federal intelligence agencies such as the DoD, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). These positions will have access to protected national security information. Examples of jobs requiring a Top-Secret clearance are FBI special agents, CIA case officers, and Air Force Office of Special Operations (OSI) investigators. Obtaining a security clearance can be challenging and lengthy, depending on past experiences that may inadvertently disqualify an applicant. The security clearance process includes an extensive background check and an interview, where an investigator will ask questions about the applicant's background and any potential security concerns. Social media is also a place where many job candidates are eliminated, as they may have posted information that violates agency standards.
To acquire a security clearance, one must be sponsored by a cleared contractor or government agency employer and be in a position that requires security clearance. A security clearance is only granted if the applicant has a specific conditional offer of employment for a job position as an employee or contractor with a federal agency that deals with classified or sensitive information.
Non-U.S. citizens cannot obtain a security clearance, as eligibility to access classified information may only be granted to U.S. citizens. However, there may be exceptions for specific situations. Limited Access Authorization (LAA) may be granted in rare circumstances where a non-U.S. citizen possesses a unique or unusual skill or expertise that is urgently needed. Requests for non-U.S. citizens to obtain access to classified information must include a Letter of Justification (LOJ), along with proof of foreign citizenship (i.e., passport), a copy of the disclosure determination or export license, and a foreign security clearance certificate (if available).
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Application requirements for security clearance
The application requirements for security clearance vary depending on the position and level of security clearance needed. Security clearances are required for individuals seeking access to classified national security information or those seeking public trust and low-risk/non-sensitive positions. The U.S. Department of State's Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) conducts personnel vetting actions to assess an individual's suitability for security clearance.
For lower levels of security clearance, the background investigation typically involves automated checks of an applicant's history. Criminal conduct, including marijuana use, is considered in an applicant's suitability for a federal job. However, past marijuana use alone does not determine suitability for non-sensitive positions. For higher-level security clearances, such as a secret clearance in a national security position, the investigation includes interviews with people who have lived or worked with the applicant in the past seven years or more.
To initiate the security clearance process, individuals can fill out the relevant forms, such as the SF-86 and SF-85, which can be found on the Office of Personnel Management's website. The time it takes to obtain security clearance can vary from months to a year, depending on various factors such as the number of pending security clearance requests and the depth of the investigation.
For assistance with the security clearance package or inquiries about the status of security clearance with the Department of State, individuals can contact the DSS Office of Personnel Security and Suitability Customer Service Center via email at [email protected] or by calling (771) 333-6740 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. EST.
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Security clearance interview process
The security clearance interview process is a critical step in the background investigation for individuals seeking to obtain security clearances and access to classified national security information. Here is an overview of the process:
Submission of Security Clearance Package:
Individuals applying for positions requiring security clearance must first submit a complete security clearance package. This typically includes a security questionnaire, such as the Standard Form 86 (SF86), and other required forms. It is important to thoroughly and honestly complete these forms, providing all relevant information.
Initiation of Background Investigation:
Once the security clearance package is submitted, a background investigation is initiated. This investigation involves verifying the information provided in the security package, including details about the individual's residence history, education, and employment. Investigators will conduct interviews with the individual's current and former neighbours, supervisors, co-workers, classmates, and provided references. They will also coordinate with law enforcement agencies in the areas where the individual has lived, worked, or attended school.
Face-to-Face Interview:
As part of the background investigation, the individual will participate in a face-to-face interview with a designated investigator. This interview typically occurs within a few weeks of submitting the security clearance package. The investigator will verify the information provided, seeking to ensure the individual's loyalty to the United States, strength of character, trustworthiness, honesty, reliability, discretion, and sound judgment. They will go over the security questionnaire in detail, clarifying any discrepancies or potential red flags that may have been identified. It is recommended to be well-prepared for this interview, bringing any relevant documents and records that may support the provided information.
Adjudication Process:
After the investigator has completed their report, highly trained security clearance adjudicators will review the results against existing adjudicative guidelines for security clearances. They will assess whether the individual meets the required standards and determine eligibility for security clearance. This decision is based on judgments by appropriately trained personnel, considering the national security interests of the country.
Interim Security Clearance:
In exceptional circumstances, an interim security clearance may be granted by the Office of Personnel Security and Suitability before the final clearance is processed. Final clearances are typically adjudicated within 90 days. Additionally, security clearances are subject to periodic reinvestigation every five years, requiring individuals to submit updated information and undergo another background investigation.
It is important to note that the specific steps and requirements may vary depending on the specific government department or agency involved in the security clearance process.
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Disqualification criteria for security clearance
The Department of Defense (DoD) does not publish a formal set of guidelines for security clearance, but there are several known disqualification criteria for security clearance. Security clearance is a privilege granted to individuals who demonstrate an unwavering allegiance to the United States. Any indication of dual loyalty or allegiance to another country, or involvement in activities that could compromise US interests, can lead to automatic disqualification. Severe financial problems, including bankruptcy, unresolved debts, or a history of financial irresponsibility, can also be disqualifying, as they may indicate a susceptibility to coercion or corruption.
Excessive alcohol consumption or a history of drug use can also be disqualifying factors. This includes the use of drugs that are illegal at the federal level, such as marijuana, LSD, cocaine, and PCP, as well as failing to complete a prescribed drug treatment program. In addition, a history of deceptive or illegal financial acts, such as embezzlement, tax evasion, or fraud, can be disqualifying.
Other disqualifying factors include providing false or incomplete information on security clearance forms, refusing to undergo the tests and evaluations necessary for security clearance, and any criminal convictions with a sentence of a year or more in prison. Mental incompetence determined by a court or agency through formal proceedings can also be a disqualifying factor.
It is important to note that individuals who are denied security clearance have the right to appeal the decision and present additional information or address concerns raised in the Statement of Reasons (SOR).
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Frequently asked questions
Non-U.S. citizens cannot obtain a security clearance unless they possess a unique skill or expertise that is urgently needed. International students can apply for a clearance certificate (DoD) but will need to provide a Letter of Justification (LOJ) along with proof of foreign citizenship and a copy of their disclosure determination or export license.
A security clearance is an extensive background check for individuals seeking federal government agency positions with access to sensitive or classified information.
Security clearances are necessary to ensure the confidentiality and protection of classified information and materials.
Many positions within federal intelligence agencies such as the FBI, CIA, DHS, and DoD require security clearances. Examples of jobs include FBI special agents, CIA case officers, and Air Force Office of Special Investigations investigators.
To acquire a security clearance, one must be sponsored by a cleared contractor or government agency employer and be in a position that requires a security clearance. The process includes an interview where an investigator will ask questions about the candidate's background and any potential security concerns.
