A Tier 3 security clearance is a background investigation that makes someone eligible for a secret clearance. It’s required for positions that are non-critical but sensitive, or that require access to confidential or secret information.
Hi all! After years in shool I finally got a TJO for a very exciting job 
that requires a t3 secret. Submitted my eAPP a couple weeks ago. I am a naturalized U.S. citizen from Hong Kong with no bad debt, drug, or mental health problems. I renounced the HK citizenship a year ago. Yet, mom is Vietnamese living in a U.S. friendly foreign country as a green card holder and my bio-dad lives in Hong Kong. The connection to my bio-dad was weak since they were divorced almost two decades ago. Got a couple half-siblings (dad side) that remain in quarterly contact who also live in HK. Have ~50 foreign contacts from +10 countries – majority due to prior work, some relatives from all over (Germany, UK, Vietnam, China) etc. None of my contacts work for a foreign government whatsoever. I know my case is going to take time because of my background. From your experience, how often do people with my background (or similar) obtain a secret? What are your opinions on my chances?
The adjudicative guideline related to this security clearance applicant is foreign influence, foreign preference and outside activities. This applicant should ensure that they list all ongoing and continuing contact with foreign nationals, list all relationships – particularly financial ones – with a foreign country, and ensure that they don’t have divided loyalties. Friendly countries, renouncing citizenship, and being honest will work in their favor.
How does a t3 secret work?
The Tier 3 investigation is part of the Trusted Workforce 2.0 model and is a combination of the previous ANACI (civilians) and NACLC (military and contractors) investigations. The investigation relies on automated record checks and letter inquiries and like other clearances, applicants may be interviewed as part of the application process.
- Checks of employment history, including dates of employment, issues, and eligibility for rehire
- Checks of residence history, including payment history and standing
- Checks of educational history, including dates of attendance, degrees earned, and disciplinary actions
- Checks of local law enforcement agencies for criminal or traffic offenses
- A credit check
