Summary
A 26-year-old defense contractor employee, originally from Taiwan, was denied a security clearance under Guideline B (Foreign Influence) and Guideline C (Foreign Preference). The Statement of Reasons (SOR) cited her close relationship with her U.S. citizen father and other family members in Taiwan, including aunts, uncles, and a childhood pastor. Although she stated she does not provide funds to or communicate frequently with her Taiwanese relatives, the applicant's travel history and passport usage were central to the denial.
Specifically, the applicant traveled to Taiwan in 2000 and 2001 using her Taiwan passport, despite possessing a U.S. passport. An additional trip to Taiwan in 2003, occurring after the investigation began, was also noted. These actions raised disqualifying conditions related to foreign influence and preference.
While mitigating conditions were considered, the judge ultimately found that the frequency of her travels to Taiwan, her continued use of a Taiwan passport even after obtaining a U.S. passport, and her trips continuing after her father became a U.S. citizen, collectively raised sufficient doubts about her eligibility. Consequently, the security clearance was denied.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant frequently traveled to Taiwan, raising concerns about foreign influence.
- The applicant used her Taiwan passport for travel even after obtaining a U.S. passport.
- The applicant's trips to Taiwan continued after her father became a U.S. citizen, indicating potential foreign influence.
Conditions Referenced
- E2.A2.1.1raisedForeign Influence
- E2.A2.1.2.1raisedForeign Influence - Immediate Family
- E2.A3.1.2.1raisedForeign Preference - Dual Citizenship
- E2.A3.1.2.1raisedForeign Preference - Use of Foreign Passport
- E2.A2.1.3.1rejectedForeign Influence - Not Agents of Foreign PowerThe applicant's relatives are not in a position to be exploited, but the frequency of travel raises doubts.
- E2.A3.1.3.4appliedForeign Preference - Renunciation of Dual CitizenshipThe applicant returned her Taiwan passport, but past use of it undermined this condition.
Key Rule Quoted
“"Any doubt as to whether access to classified information is clearly consistent with national security will be resolved in favor of the national security."”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedAug 10, 2004
- Answer filedOct 4, 2004Applicant responded to allegations.
- Hearing heldFeb 9, 2005Hearing conducted with evidence presented.
- Decision dateMar 23, 2005
Cite For
- Foreign Influence Concerns Due to Frequent Travel to a Foreign Country
- Use of a Foreign Passport Despite Holding U.S. Citizenship
- The Burden of Proof on the Applicant to Demonstrate National Interest in Granting Clearance