Summary
This security clearance application was denied due to concerns under Guideline B (Foreign Influence) and Guideline C (Foreign Preference). The applicant, a naturalized U.S. citizen born in Colombia, maintained a valid Colombian passport, issued in July 2008 and expiring in July 2018, which he used for travel. His family ties in Colombia included a mother-in-law, father-in-law, and sister who are all citizens and residents there. Additionally, his wife, a dual citizen, owns property in Colombia.
The judge cited the applicant's continued possession and use of his Colombian passport as evidence of foreign preference, particularly his refusal to surrender it despite being advised of the security implications. These actions, combined with his significant family connections in Colombia, raised concerns about potential foreign influence and coercion.
Ultimately, the application was denied because the applicant's maintenance of a foreign passport and his family ties in Colombia were deemed to present an unacceptable security risk, indicating a preference for a foreign country over the U.S. and a potential for foreign influence.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant maintained a valid Colombian passport and used it for travel, indicating a preference for a foreign country over the U.S.
- The applicant's family ties in Colombia, including a spouse and in-laws, raised concerns about potential foreign influence and coercion.
- The applicant refused to surrender his Colombian passport despite being advised of the security concerns.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 10(a)(1)raisedPossession of a Current Foreign Passport
- AG ¶ 7(a)raisedContact with Foreign Family Members
- AG ¶ 7(b)raisedConnections to Foreign Persons Creating Potential Conflict of Interest
- AG ¶ 8(b)appliedNo Conflict of Interest Due to Deep Ties to the U.S.
Key Rule Quoted
“The protection of the national security is the paramount consideration.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedOct 22, 2015
- Answer filed—Applicant requested a review on the written record.
- Hearing held—No hearing; review on the written record.
- Decision dateJan 18, 2017
Cite For
- Security Concerns Regarding Foreign Preference Due to Possession of a Foreign Passport
- Impact of Foreign Family Ties on Security Clearance Eligibility
- The Importance of National Security in Adjudicating Security Clearance Cases