foreign travel security clearance reddit

Chances of S approval with red flags?

Currently doing my clearance for the FAA for a dream job. It’s a secret tier 3 role, been married for over 5 years, wife and I lived abroad in 2 different European/Euro-Asian countries before (during covid times).

Non-US citizen wife is here in the US with me as immigration paperwork is still pending, she’s still under a legal presence in the eyes of USCIS as she never got into any unlawful presence status. Father is undocumented and still in talks with a lawyer to fix his issues, even though I have limited weekly conversations with him.

As far as foreign contacts we lost all contact to who we considered as normal friends who were abroad. And my 2 half siblings who are non citizens abroad are extremely estranged. Wife has friends that I dont think are illegal but im not sure, maybe DACA. We had lots of foreign travel during covid times as well. We missed filing US taxes when we we’re abroad, didn’t owe anything but a genuine oopsy on us.

With these red flags any bad chance that I get denied?

Well none of that sounds automatically disqualifying. The main issues I see

• Did you file those taxes later on? Are you in good standing now? If not, then you need to file them and pay whatever penalty for late filing and get in good standing FAST!
• If the investigator tries to contact those family members who are foreign nationals. and you don’t have their current contact info, you may be in for a VERY LONG investigation.

There a few things that need to be considered. What Euro-Asian country did you reside in? Although, you may not be in contact with anyone you considered normal friends presently, the case papers ask if you have had close and continuing contact in the past 7 years. If it was during COVID, that would be in the past 7 years. What country does your wife and father hold citizenship with? You are required to list document numbers on the case papers for all foreign born relatives. Based on all of the information provided, it is likely you will have an interview with an investigator, Investigators do not routinely contact foreign family members. This is rare. If you had close and continuing contact with people from the foreign country where you resided, you should be prepared to provide as much information as possible about them. I am not an adjudicator, so I can not tell you if you will get denied. I can tell you that these are pretty regular cases.

Netherlands and Turkey were the countries. Wife is from Nicaragua and father is from Turkey. I’m just worried and stressing about the process since its a job I really want and basically went to school for.

So for close and continuing i guess within the past 7 years people that fit the matrix of “I’d invite them to my wedding” fit well enough? And do i have to include my wifes close and continuing contacts too even if I have no communication/connection?

TIA everyone!

Yeah we did file the taxes and we owe 0 because of foreign tax credit and what not from living abroad. I dont believe we received a penalty for late payment. Will double check on that.

I have to ask family for those addresses and phone numbers because I really don’t speak to them or their language lol. I don’t think they’ll say anything bad at least.

Btw for the foreign contact section. Do i need to put down my wifes close friends? It confuses me a little about what is defined as a foreign contact. Since my wife has foreign friends, and we used to have foreign friends abroad. Apparently, a method is “would you invite this person to your wedding”

If you do not, and have not had close and continuing contact in the past 7 years, especially due to language barrier, you would not list these people as foreign contacts. Be very literal with the questions on the SF86. Question ask if “you” have had any foreign contacts.You do not need to list your wife’s foreign contacts if you do not have contact with them. With that being said, pay attention to the questions that do include your wife, such as foreign property, foreign benefits, etc. Many times foreign sponsorship is overlooked with an individual sponsors their spouse to come into the US. The taxes do not seem to be a big issue because you are not delinquent. However, if you failed to file, you will have to respond accordingly on the SF86.

Living abroad we did have foreign bank accounts which are closed now, but nothing other than that. Already put down the sponsorship stuff. We met foreign people for religious things at a place of worship abroad but I don’t believe those constitute of a foreign contact considering i know nothing about them other than their first name.

Related Topics

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

•  Newsletters
•  Guides
•  Reader Q&A
•  Contribute
•  Issue Briefs
•  Webinars
•  Search

Federal Manager's Daily Report

New foreign travel reporting requirements for america’s elite and secured workforce.

Recent reform of facilities clearance regulations now demands more of the corporate facilities security officer (FSO). On February 24, 2021, the NISPOM Rule was codified in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). In addition to adding the NISPOM to the CFR, this rule codifies provisions of Security Executive Agent Directive (SEAD) 3, “Reporting Requirements for Personnel with Access to Classified Information or Who Hold a Sensitive Position.”

With this shift comes the adoption of new criteria for what information cleared industry personnel must report. According to these rules, individuals must disclose information about their international travel, finances, personal relationships, and other circumstances. Previously, these were not required to be reported, but some organizations may have enforced them internally.

These specifications are taken directly from SEAD 3, which, up until this point, only applied to government workers by way of NISPOM. Now, employees in the private industry will be held to the same standards as those in the government sector.

The newly beefed-up Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) pushed the reform to report foreign travel as required by SEAD 3. New IT tools were supplied, and the capability to submit bulk foreign travel went “live” on August 24, 2022. So as of August 24, 2022, all federal contracting employees holding a  personnel clearance (security clearance or “PCL”)  must  report any foreign travel  to their Facility Security Officers (FSOs).

While the goal of these changes is to help cleared workers self-enforce security standards, the Defense Department has acknowledged the challenges for cleared individuals in submitting the new reports in the system of records (Defense Information System for Security [DISS]) across a counterintelligence dataset of over one million employees working for 12,000 cleared facilities. Foreign intelligence services could be active in any of those facilities, including yours, at this very moment.

When Contemplating Travel Abroad All security clearance holders are required by Security Executive Agent Directive (SEAD) 3 to report international travel prior to departure. In addition to pre-approval, individuals must disclose their travel schedule to their security officer and should attend a pre-travel security briefing.

When a clearance holder contemplates traveling abroad, an email must be sent to the FSO at least 10 business days before departure. Corporate leadership may require longer notice from the planned travel date, but it is generally advisable to notify leadership at least two weeks in advance of the planned travel date. In this email, it is important to not only include where you will be traveling but also the timeframe in which you will be in foreign countries.

Upon receiving this email, FSO will usually send employees a corporate form to collect some further information required by SEAD 3. Along with the forms, they will also send over any state department travel advisories covering the destination countries.

Our recommendation to Tully Rinckey’s clients is the same as for the secured reader: a regular practice of all prudently cleared corporate executives and their employees is the maintenance of a spreadsheet of all foreign travel, listing the essential data points of travel. This will help in reporting before and after the movement, as well as when required to submit the Standard Form 86, Questionnaire for National Security. Yes, this is onerous, especially in a networked global economy, but it is a transaction cost now required of an elite and secured workforce.

Filing Corporate Forms When presented with these corporate forms, there are a few key things employees should include. Along with what was stated above—travel destination and dates—employees will also need to include a full itinerary and their United States and/or foreign (if a dual citizen) passport information. Additionally, the FSO will arrange an employee travel safety briefing prior to departure. It is advisable to include the safety information in the briefing as part of the corporate form filing. After the employee completes the corporate form and returns it to their FSO, they are ready to travel.

One additional precaution an employee might wish to take is to sign the form, so as to remove any doubt of an FSO doing “batch compiling” to pass an inspection.

Following the completion of these pre-travel forms, the FSO will open the subject’s profile in DISS and create a foreign travel report, entering the dates the clearance holder will travel, the date they first reported their travel, the reason for travel, and any other notes, such as mode of transportation and other relevant information. After the FSO makes this initial entry, the file is formed, and updates can be made as changes come in or when the debrief is completed.

Post Trip Debriefing Once the clearance-holding employee returns from their trip abroad, the FSO conducts a foreign travel debrief within five (5) business days. If the employee answers “no” to all these questions, they have fulfilled their federal responsibilities for reporting foreign travel.

However, if they answer “yes” to any of the questions asked, the clearance holder will need to provide further information. These follow-up questions are intended to ensure the FSO conducts due diligence in the reporting process. Once the employee completes this form, they sign it and return it to the FSO.

After the employee returns and completes their foreign travel briefing, the FSO will put any further relevant information in DISS and then mark the report as “debriefed.” Once a travel report is marked, the file will be unavailable while it is reviewed.

This report will eventually reappear, and the FSO will need to maintain a physical record of the pre-travel form that the debriefing employees fill out in case they need to access it before the report is accessible within DISS. This record can be maintained for as long as the employee remains at the company.

Stay Up to Date on Reporting the Reporting Process While the new reporting requirements will likely cause confusion for a number of years and may even push some PCL holders into adjudication as a security concern based on non-compliance, by staying on top of what your agency’s reporting requirements are, you can best protect your travel plans and your security clearance.

Dan Meyer, Managing Partner of Tully Rinckey PLLC’s Washington, D.C. office, has dedicated more than 25 years of service to the field of federal employment and national security law as both a practicing attorney and federal investigator and senior executive. He is a leader in advocating for service members, federal civilian employees, and contractors as they fight to retain their credentialing, suitability, and security clearances. Lachlan McKinion supports the needs of TR’s corporate national security clientele. Mr. Meyer can be reached at [email protected] or at (888) 529-4543.

What Recent Vaccine Guidance Updates Mean for Federal Contractors?

What Federal Employees Should Know When Responding to Agency Disciplinary Actions

How the Misuse of IT Systems Can Jeopardize a Security Clearance

Will ‘Outside Activities’ Lead to a Security Review?

Federal Security Clearance: Foreign Influence & Preference in an Age of Globalized National Security

What Happens if You Leave Money in the TSP After Separation

Pay Gap Increases; New, Expanded Localities Again Recommended

FEHB: Federal Benefits Fast Facts

FERS Retirement Planning Bundle: 2022 FERS Guide & TSP Handbook

TSP Returns Summary

Source: TSP.gov

Understanding Security Clearance Travel Restrictions: What You Need To Know

• Last updated Jul 29, 2023
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category United States

Imagine a world where traveling freely is an everyday luxury, a world where passports don't dictate your freedom to explore. Unfortunately, in the realm of security clearance, this idea is far from reality. Security clearance travel restrictions put a damper on the wanderlust of those entrusted with classified information, adding an extra layer of caution to their passport-stamped adventures. In this article, we'll delve into the intricacies of security clearance travel restrictions, examining the reasons behind them and their impact on the lives of those affected. So, buckle up and prepare for a journey through the realm of security clearance and the travel restrictions that bind it.

What You'll Learn

What is the purpose of security clearance travel restrictions, how do security clearance travel restrictions differ for different levels of security clearance, what types of activities are typically restricted for individuals with security clearance, how do security clearance travel restrictions affect individuals in high-level government positions, are there any exceptions to security clearance travel restrictions in certain circumstances.

Security clearance travel restrictions are put in place to ensure the safety and security of individuals and sensitive information. These restrictions are typically applied to individuals who hold security clearances, which grants them access to classified or sensitive information.

The purpose of security clearance travel restrictions is to prevent unauthorized disclosure or compromise of classified information. This is achieved by controlling and monitoring the travel and movements of individuals with security clearances.

One of the key reasons for these restrictions is to prevent espionage or intelligence gathering. By limiting the travel of individuals with security clearances, the risk of them being targeted by foreign intelligence agencies or hostile entities is reduced. These restrictions ensure that individuals with access to classified information are not put in a position where they could be coerced or manipulated into divulging sensitive information.

Additionally, travel restrictions also help in protecting classified or sensitive facilities from potential threats. By controlling the movements of individuals with security clearances, unauthorized access to these facilities can be minimized. This helps in maintaining the security and integrity of these facilities, which may contain valuable assets or information.

Furthermore, security clearance travel restrictions also serve to protect the privacy of individuals. By keeping their travel information limited and confidential, the risk of their personal information falling into the wrong hands is minimized. This helps in safeguarding their personal safety and well-being.

It is important to note that these travel restrictions are not intended to be overly restrictive or burdensome. Instead, they are designed with the intention of striking a balance between granting individuals access to classified information while ensuring their safety and security.

In conclusion, the purpose of security clearance travel restrictions is to protect individuals with security clearances, prevent unauthorized disclosure of classified information, safeguard sensitive facilities, and ensure the privacy and safety of individuals. These restrictions play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and security of classified information and assets.

Exploring the Enchanting Faroe Islands: Current Travel Restrictions and Guidelines

You may want to see also

Security clearance is a crucial aspect of national security, and it comes with certain restrictions when it comes to travel. These restrictions can vary depending on the level of security clearance an individual has. In this article, we will explore how security clearance travel restrictions differ for different levels of security clearance.

Firstly, it is important to understand that security clearance is divided into different levels, such as Confidential, Secret, and Top Secret. The level of clearance determines the sensitivity of the information an individual has access to and the level of trust that is placed in them. Consequently, the level of security clearance also impacts the travel restrictions imposed on individuals.

For individuals with Confidential clearance, the travel restrictions are relatively minimal. Generally, they are allowed to travel within the country without any special permissions or notifications. However, it is important for them to maintain situational awareness when traveling, ensuring that they do not discuss or disclose any classified information.

Moving up to Secret clearance, the travel restrictions become more stringent. Individuals with Secret clearance may be required to report their travel plans to their security officer or department. This is done to ensure that any potential risks associated with the travel, such as visiting high-risk areas or countries, can be assessed. It is also important for individuals to be mindful of their actions and conversations during travel, as they may still be exposed to sensitive information that should not be discussed in public.

Finally, individuals with Top Secret clearance face the most significant travel restrictions. Travel plans must be submitted well in advance to allow for a thorough security review. This review evaluates potential risks associated with the travel and determines if any additional precautions or limitations need to be imposed. Additionally, individuals with Top Secret clearance may also be required to undergo briefings or training specific to the travel destination.

It is essential for individuals with security clearance to adhere to these travel restrictions to maintain the integrity of classified information and protect national security. Violating these restrictions can result in severe consequences, including loss of security clearance or criminal charges.

In summary, security clearance travel restrictions differ based on the level of security clearance an individual holds. From minimal restrictions for Confidential clearance to more stringent requirements for Secret clearance, and significant limitations for Top Secret clearance, each level of security clearance imposes specific travel restrictions to ensure the protection of classified information and national security. It is essential for individuals with security clearance to fully understand and comply with these restrictions when traveling to maintain the integrity of their clearance and the safety of sensitive information.

Understanding Travel Restrictions in Tibet: What You Need to Know

Individuals with security clearance must adhere to a set of regulations and guidelines that govern their behavior and activities, in order to protect classified information and maintain national security. These restrictions vary depending on the level of security clearance held by the individual, but some common activities that are typically restricted include:

• Disclosure of Classified Information: Individuals with security clearance are prohibited from disclosing any classified information to unauthorized individuals or entities. This includes sharing information with family members, friends, or even discussing classified matters in public places.
• Interaction with Foreign Nationals: Individuals with security clearance may be restricted in their interactions with foreign nationals, particularly those from countries deemed to be potential threats. These restrictions can include limitations on personal relationships, such as romantic involvement, friendships, or even certain professional interactions.
• Travel Restrictions: Individuals with security clearance may have restrictions placed on their travel, particularly to certain countries or regions that are considered high-risk or have sensitive information. This may include limitations on travel to countries with known terrorist activities or restricted access to certain military installations or research facilities.
• Financial Dealings: Individuals with security clearance may face restrictions on their financial activities, such as investments or business dealings, particularly if they involve foreign entities or industries with potential security implications. This is to prevent conflicts of interest, potential insider trading, or exploitation by foreign interests.
• Online Activities: Individuals with security clearance may be subject to monitoring of their online activities, including social media usage and online interactions. Any posts or discussions that could potentially compromise classified information or indicate questionable behavior may be considered a violation of security clearance guidelines.
• Drug and Alcohol Use: Individuals with security clearance may be subject to periodic drug and alcohol testing. Any substance abuse issues could be seen as a security risk, as they could compromise an individual's judgment and reliability.
• Personal Conduct: Individuals with security clearance are expected to maintain a high level of personal conduct and integrity. Any behavior that raises ethical or moral concerns, such as criminal activity, dishonesty, or associations with criminal organizations, can lead to the revocation or suspension of security clearance.

It is essential for individuals with security clearance to fully understand and comply with these restrictions, as any violation can not only lead to the loss of security clearance but also legal repercussions. It is important for individuals with security clearance to consult their security officer or contact their agency's security office for detailed guidance on the specific restrictions that apply to them based on their level of clearance.

Understanding Ulster County Travel Restrictions: What you Need to Know

Security clearance travel restrictions play a vital role in ensuring the security and integrity of high-level government positions. These restrictions are put in place to protect sensitive information and prevent unauthorized access to classified material. While they may seem restrictive, they are necessary to maintain the trust and confidence in government officials.

One of the primary impacts of travel restrictions on individuals in high-level government positions is the limitation on international travel. Individuals with security clearance are often restricted from traveling to certain countries, particularly those with a high risk of espionage or terrorism. This is done to minimize the potential for foreign adversaries to exploit government officials and gather classified information.

Another impact of security clearance travel restrictions is the requirement for individuals to report their travel plans and provide detailed itineraries. This allows security personnel to review and assess the potential risks associated with the travel. In some cases, individuals may be required to obtain approval before traveling to certain locations or attending specific events. This level of scrutiny ensures that government officials are not unwittingly putting themselves or the country at risk.

Additionally, security clearance travel restrictions may require individuals to undergo additional screening and vetting procedures before traveling. This can include enhanced background checks, interviews, and even polygraph examinations. While these measures may be time-consuming and intrusive, they are necessary to mitigate the potential for security breaches and protect national interests.

Furthermore, security clearance travel restrictions can have a significant impact on personal and professional relationships. Individuals with high-level government positions may find it difficult to maintain regular contact with family and friends, especially if they are stationed abroad or travel frequently. Moreover, the limitations on their travel can hinder their ability to attend important conferences, meetings, or diplomatic events, potentially affecting their career advancement.

Overall, while security clearance travel restrictions may impose certain limitations and inconveniences on individuals in high-level government positions, they are critical for protecting national security interests. These restrictions ensure that sensitive information remains secure and prevent unauthorized access to classified material. Although they may pose challenges in terms of personal and professional life, individuals with security clearance understand the gravity of their role and the importance of upholding national security.

When it comes to security clearance travel restrictions, the general rule is that individuals with certain types of security clearances are subject to travel restrictions to certain countries and regions deemed to pose risks to national security. However, there are certain circumstances where exceptions to these travel restrictions can be made.

One common exception is for individuals who are employed in positions that require international travel as part of their job duties. These individuals may be granted a specific exception to travel to restricted countries or regions for work-related purposes. This exception is typically granted on a case-by-case basis, and the individual must provide a valid justification for the travel, such as attending a conference or meeting with foreign counterparts.

Another exception is for individuals who are participating in government-sponsored programs or initiatives that involve travel to restricted countries or regions. These programs may include diplomatic missions, humanitarian aid missions, or cultural exchange programs. In these cases, the individual's participation in the program may warrant an exception to the travel restrictions, as it is deemed to serve a greater national interest.

There may also be exceptions for individuals who have family members or close personal ties in restricted countries or regions. These exceptions are typically granted on a compassionate basis, allowing the individual to travel to the country or region to visit their family or attend important family events. However, these exceptions are usually subject to additional scrutiny and may require the individual to report their travel plans and activities while in the restricted country or region.

It is important to note that these exceptions to security clearance travel restrictions are not guaranteed, and each case is evaluated on its own merits. The granting of an exception is ultimately at the discretion of the relevant security clearance authority, and the individual must provide a compelling reason for the exception to be considered.

Furthermore, even if an exception is granted, there may still be additional security measures or requirements imposed on the individual, such as increased monitoring or reporting. These measures are put in place to mitigate the potential risks associated with travel to restricted countries or regions.

In conclusion, while security clearance travel restrictions are generally strict and apply to individuals with certain types of security clearances, there are certain circumstances where exceptions can be made. These exceptions are typically granted for work-related purposes, government-sponsored programs, or compassionate reasons. However, the granting of an exception is not guaranteed and is subject to a case-by-case evaluation by the relevant security clearance authority.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, individuals with security clearance are subject to travel restrictions. These restrictions are in place to protect sensitive information and national security interests.

Yes, individuals with security clearance can travel internationally. However, they may be required to obtain approval and follow certain protocols before and during their trip. This could include notifying their security officer, providing a detailed itinerary, and following any specific travel restrictions or guidelines.

Failing to comply with travel restrictions can have serious consequences for individuals with security clearance. They may face disciplinary action, lose their clearance, or even be subject to legal consequences. It is important for individuals with security clearance to understand and diligently adhere to any travel restrictions in place.

• Alain Brady Author Reviewer

• Melissa Carey Author Reviewer Traveller

It is awesome. Thank you for your feedback!

We are sorry. Plesae let us know what went wrong?

We will update our content. Thank you for your feedback!

Leave a comment

United states photos, related posts.

China Travel Restrictions to United States: What You Need to Know

• Aug 22, 2023

Essential Items for a Perfect Apple Picking Adventure: What to Pack

• Dec 31, 2023

10 Festive Activities to Enjoy in Cincinnati During December

• Jul 24, 2023

Essential Items to Pack for a Greek Island Cruise

• Nov 22, 2023

Navigating Travel Restrictions in Half Moon Bay: What You Need to Know

• Sep 08, 2023

13 Fun Things to Do in Brunswick, Maine

• May 07, 2023

• Forgot your username or password ?
• Create a new account

Job Seekers

• Career Resources

NEWS + ADVICE

Security clearances: your obligation to report foreign contacts.

Security Consultant, TC Mitchell, explains security clearance holders’ obligation to report foreign national contacts. A foreign national is any person who is not a U.S. citizen or U.S. national.

One of your many responsibilities as a person that holds a security clearance is reporting foreign contacts with whom you have close and/or continuing contact. You agree to this when you apply with the U.S. government for your security clearance.

The primary objective is to protect both information and the person with whom access to information has been given. There is a threat that a security clearance holder can be exploited to provide information that they have access to, through a relationship or bonds of affection. That type of bond creates a risk for compromising information as well as the actual oath that one is bound to when you accept the responsibilities of carrying a clearance.

The risks that increase U.S. vulnerabilities have variance from minor to grave implications, that can cause damage to our nation’s safety, national security, the protection of our military, civilian citizens, technical information, biological information or intellectual information.

There are various ways in which cleared individuals handle foreign contacts. Some people are extremely careful and literally choose to live a life having no foreign friends. Others are more liberal and their lifestyle is such that they have lived abroad, like military personnel. So they quite naturally by circumstance know many non-Americans – either living among them, attending school or places of worship together and working on a parallel project at work together, for example.

Foreign contacts are not just limited to those met outside of the continental United States. A foreign contact that lives in the states versus one that lives overseas could potentially pose the same threat if they are in the life of a person that has a security clearance.

Contacts You Know in Passing vs Long Term

While I recommend reporting every foreign contact , there are a variety of situations in which you might run into foreign nationals that do not bear reporting. In your everyday life for instance, you do not have to report those casual, passing relationships of those that you might see occasionally at your favorite grocery store, such as the butcher or produce worker. Other examples include a regular UPS delivery person, or even your physician, that one should feel obligated to report. However, this advice still depends on how much information the clearance holder shares about themselves.

It is required to report all close and/or continuous relationships (e.g. your children’s tutor or nanny), and especially those with endearing ties, such as a romantic relationship. You made an oath to your government and are obligated to report them to your security office.

Reporting periodic regular relationships with foreign nationals is required, however minor, such as a social media friend only. It’s a good idea and it’s the right thing to do because you have nothing to hide. Ask your security officer the protocol for the agency you work with, as there may be more stringent requirements.

Example of Foreign Contact to Report

I know someone in the Air Force who was stationed in Australia. While he was stationed there he became so close to an Australian that he was named the godfather to that person’s children. So that’s a true bond of affection that is almost like a family member. Since that person is not an American, he is reported every year – even though they may only see each other every four or five years because the family has to travel to Australia to see him, and he is no longer active duty there.

The point is that you have a connection, and having that strong connection could potentially have an impact on your decision-making, by virtue of wanting to care for or protect that loved one. So it is very important to report them because we care for those in our family that are close to us and our human nature is to protect them. That sort of love or caring can be exploited by those that seek to do harm against Americans or our nation, so it’s very important to maintain that list.

Avoid This Foreign Contact Pitfall

The main concern is creating a lasting friendship or bonds of affection with a foreign national that you do not report. It’s easily traceable and easily found out through your agreed upon background investigation and continuous evaluation. Choosing not to report a foreign contact that you have close or continuing ties with puts your security clearance at risk and therefore your livelihood and perhaps even your freedom.

Whether you have 1 or 150 foreign national contacts, just do your due diligence by reporting them. There are people that have so many foreign contacts, they’ve provided full spreadsheets! Maintaining a list of them with the dates of contact is really helpful for your reinvestigation and continuous evaluation. The context in which you have met these people is also important, so be sure to note how and why you met and know these contacts.

The best and safest practice is: If you’ve had a conversation for more than two minutes with that person, report that contact . You don’t know how much information you have revealed about yourself over time, that they could have gathered from your many casual conversations. They can then put those pieces together to create a bigger picture about you or your lifestyle. Although, my experience is that most people are careful with revealing their professional lives to strangers. Newer individuals to this industry are learning to practice good OPSEC and it bears reinforcing over and over.

Reporting foreign contacts is one of the highest obligations for security clearance holders.

TC Mitchell

Security Consultant | Clearance Analyst | Federal Contractor Business Secrets Podcast | Washington, DC. Contact me at  [email protected]

16 thoughts on “Security Clearances: Your Obligation to Report Foreign Contacts”

well let me ask this? what about the political leaders and aides and those who deal with the Third world nationals on a daily basis ?Does tis count

Great Question Steve! The defining factor on reporting foreign contacts to your security officer is solely based on IF you have a security clearance. And because there are varying levels of clearances, all with unique requirements, all persons should consult with their security office to determine and actually be reminded of their responsibilities that they agreed to upon indoctrination. Thank you for your question!

Great information. Thanks for sharing. What kind of information is required to capture about each individual?

Hi Todd, Primarily, you will provide the nature of the relationship and dates of the relationship. It could expand, but that is usually the most basic information required. Thank you for your question! TC

I attend a Hispanic church and I am a friend of one person there who I know is an undocumented immigrant. What should I do? I don’t know or work with any spies. My dilemma is that I don’t want to get someone I care about in trouble.

As long as they are handling their paperwork to get it processed correctly, it’s not your concern or your duty to ensure that they are doing what they need to do. And if you find that you can’t refrain from asking them questions that are not truly your business, I would advise you to break off the relationship Because you have an obligation if this is a close and/or continuing relationship, To provide the names of those in your life with such status that or not US citizens. And I encourage you to teach people to tell you as little as possible because it’s not your business, and also I would encourage you to not ask people a lot of personal questions as a practice. If you have any further questions please reach me at the email below.

I am looking at having virtual assistants to in Pakistan handle my Facebook Automation account administration. The fee for the service is $5k and they handle all sells on the Facebook Marketplace administration and shop. It is my shop but they will handle all of the sales of my products and correspondence with customers. In return, there is a profit split with my VA 60/40. Before I hire or agree to move forward, is this forbidden? I am government civilian with a secret clearance but I don’t discuss work just the Marketplace shop and earning income from the sell of various items. I have not hired their cheap VA work yet. I just want to be in the clear.

I have a relationship with someone i never met, they are a good friend on social media and gaming platforms, and we plan on meeting each other in less than a year, we have been talking for a little while, and i feel that this person would be considered a close friend, i am 19 and they are 17 would reporting them be challenging due to their age? Could i be forced to stop talking to this person? And what kind of information do they need and look at when i make this report?

It’s important to note that you two are both teenagers, So being in the same age group you would not have to cease the friendship for obvious reasons. How do you said you were over 21 I would give a different response. And I would have to understand the context in which you actually hold a security clearance. For example do you work full-time? Are you active duty in the military and are stationed abroad? And depending on your level of clearance it might not even be an issue. So these are some of the issues that would be of concern to really be able to give you a true answer. Feel free to reach out to me via email for further information.

“If you’ve had a conversation for more than two minutes with that person, report that contact.”

This was clearly written by someone who has never traveled outside the United States. Or realized that they have > 3 minute interactions with foreign nationals in the U.S. on a frequent basis without knowing it. This is the kind of nonesense advice that makes investigators pull their hair out, wastes taxpayer money, and has resulted in the clearance system being as backlogged as it is.

The context was if a person with the security clearance has been able to determine that they are talking to a foreign national and they are unsure of all of the information they have revealed about them selves then yes they should actually list foreign nationals’ name. Frankly, to determine within two minutes if a person is an American, when CONUS is atypical – The answer was under the context of and/or continuing coupled with deferring to your security officer on completing the application. Cleared personnel usually have training to determine if they are being targeted for information And if so they should list that person. Yes, Even for a two minute conversation. So hopefully you’ll get to keep your hair and know that you are doing your part to help our nation as tedious as it might be.

My husband and I are about to PCS again. I am now looking for a in home nanny because I worry that if something happens to me while my husband is deployed, then there would be nobody to check in on me or feed/take care of my baby. Military one source recommended that I go through Au Pair service to get an in home nanny as it fits within our limited budget. Au Pairs are from different country’s though. Is there a way to “pre-report” or somehow ask for permission to hire a nanny from another country before I commit to someone? When reporting would I have to collect and state the nanny’s immediate relative information?

Hey. My wife has a TS security clearance. I have a business colleague that is a foreign national that I want to have stay in our guest room for a while so me may work on our business pursuits, while I remain isolated (I’m high risk to Covid). Is it against the law / rules to have this foreign national as a guest in our home for a couple of months during the summer? I don’t want my wife’s clearance jeopardized!

What if I work in an international organization and I interact with dozens of foreign nationals each day?

If I have a relative/friend whom I have had continuous conversation with, 3 years ago, but have lost their contact as of now- then should I be reporting their name in my list? Also, can a person apply for security clearance, as soon as they become a citizen via naturalization?

If a person who has a security clearance w/Sandia labs does not have an SEC license and solicits money from church members to invest in a financial instrument which profits allegedly benefit villagers in Peru, is the clearance holder required to report the foreign organizers/contacts and the investment principals to you to verify legitimacy?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of updates to this conversation

SEARCH JOBS

Search blog, upcoming job fairs, subscribe to our email list.

Receive tips & info on cleared job search, security clearances and career development.

• Advanced Job Search
• Browse Jobs
• Clearance FAQs

ClearedJobs.Net

• Privacy Policy