TS/SCI processing, previously reported foreign relatives, and what to address during a CI polygraph… Foreign contacts can add uncertainty to an already stressful security-clearance process, especially when a CI polygraph is involved. In this thread, a current TS clearance holder seeking SCI access discusses concerns about a foreign-born spouse and in-laws, the timing of those disclosures, and whether previously reported information should be raised again during the polygraph. The conversation highlights common questions about disclosure obligations, the pre-test interview, and the distinction between a polygraph examination and final clearance adjudication.
“So, I have a unique situation and need to some advice. Long story short I have a TS clearance and the company/agency I report is trying to process my SCI. I started the process in December last year. They said since my SCI was previously with DOD, they needed to go through Intel first to complete the process and cross over my clearance. Because of that they need to do a BI with the Intel Agency. My wife is Russian and her and her family who have lived here for nearly 20 years all have been naturalized as US Citizens except for her father who is in the process of getting his citizenship. I had reported him as a foreign national separately as well as during the subject interview. I also have been scheduled for a CI poly next Monday. If I had reported him, will I have any issues? He nor their family have any contact or interest with anyone outside the U.S. and all of their family or friends are currently living in the U.S. and have their citizenship as well. I’ve been completely open and honest throughout the entire process.”
AUTOMATIC DISQUALIFIER?
Probably not automatically. Because your father-in-law became reportable only after the marriage, promptly reporting him afterward to your security officer/investigator is generally the appropriate action. A foreign relative by itself does not automatically prevent SCI access or cause a failed CI polygraph.
For SCI adjudication, officials consider the whole situation, like his citizenship, residence, foreign ties, your relationship and frequency of contact, and whether anyone could exert pressure or seek classified information. Timely, complete disclosure is favorable, although only the adjudicating agency can determine the outcome under the SEAD 4 adjudicative guidelines.
For the polygraph, consistency matters. Answer the examiner’s questions truthfully and do not speculate. Before the appointment, ask your FSO or security representative to confirm that the marriage and foreign-contact report were added to your record. Keep the reporting date or confirmation available but follow the examiner’s directions about what should be discussed during the session. DCSA guidance confirms that marriages and qualifying continuing relationships with foreign nationals are reportable; information already reported generally does not need to be repeatedly submitted unless your agency requests it.
In short: the relationship may receive review, but reporting it after the marriage is much better than omitting it, and it is not an automatic SCI or polygraph disqualifier.
Read the full thread here.
