Security Clearance & Reporting Your Foreign Travel

Despite strict stay-at-home orders issued by governors across the nation after the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) was declared a national emergency, many people are eager to get outside and proceed with their travel plans. For some, this means a road trip, but for others, it means a honeymoon, a vacation abroad, or an overseas trip to visit family. It can also mean traveling to another country to ...

Are You Required to Report Your Shady Coworker?

We’ve all heard about people abusing their power, especially when they’re in law enforcement or politics. We’ve also heard about people in important positions seeing questionable behavior in their colleagues and looking the other way or sticking their head in the sand. But what if you have a security clearance and your cleared colleague does something that would give you cause for alarm? Do you ...

Why Does it Take So Long to Get Security Clearance?

It’s no secret that the security clearance process takes a long time. How long does it take? The length of time it takes from beginning to end depends on the type of security clearance, which federal agency is involved, and the presence of significant unfavorable information about the applicant. On the lower end, it can take 30 to 180 days to complete clearance, while it can take between six ...

Controlling Your Lifestyle If You Hold Security Clearance

Once you’re approved for security clearance , regardless of the level, you’ll have to make some lifestyle adjustments. You’ll also have to start planning ahead. If you have several phone calls with someone in Paris, you’ll have to report it. If you file for divorce, the government will learn about that too. And if you file Chapter 7 or 13 bankruptcy , you’ll have to disclose it, even if you want ...