Summary
This case concerns a 48-year-old naturalized U.S. citizen and engineer whose security clearance was initially questioned under Guideline B (Foreign Influence) and Guideline F (Financial Considerations). Concerns under Guideline B arose from the applicant's family ties, as his mother, father, and two brothers are citizens and residents of Iran. A third brother resides in Belgium, and all three brothers have expressed interest in relocating to the United States. The applicant's father-in-law, who was also an Iranian citizen and resident, passed away in 2003.
Under Guideline F, the applicant's financial history was reviewed, specifically a Chapter 7 bankruptcy petition filed on October 17, 1995, which resulted in the discharge of approximately $554,493.22 in debts on January 30, 1996. An adversary proceeding in April 1996 alleged an outstanding debt of $15,281.00 plus $150.00 in costs to a telephone company.
Ultimately, the security clearance was GRANTED. The decision noted the applicant's strong commitment to the U.S., having not returned to Iran since 1977. It was also determined that the family members in Iran were not agents of a foreign power and were not in a position to be exploited. Furthermore, the applicant's financial difficulties were resolved over ten years prior, and he demonstrated current financial stability.
Why the applicant prevailed
- The applicant demonstrated a strong commitment to the U.S. and has not returned to Iran since 1977.
- The applicant's financial difficulties were resolved over ten years ago, and he is now financially stable.
- The applicant's family members in Iran are not agents of a foreign power and are not in a position to be exploited.
Conditions referenced
- B.1raisedForeign Influence - Immediate Family Member Is a Citizen Of, or Resident In, a Foreign Country.
- F.2raisedFinancial Considerations - Failure to Meet Financial Obligations.
- B.1appliedForeign Influence - Immediate Family Member(s) Are Not Agents of a Foreign Power.
- F.3appliedFinancial Considerations - the Individual Has Demonstrated a Clear and Established Track Record of Financial Responsibility.
Key rule quoted
“A security risk may exist when an individual's immediate family... are not citizens of the United States or may be subject to duress.”
Procedural posture
- SOR issuedSep 20, 2005
- Answer filedNov 2, 2005
- Hearing heldMar 15, 2006
- Decision dateJun 8, 2006
Cite for
- Mitigation of Foreign Influence Concerns Due to Family Ties Under Guideline B
- Resolution of Financial Difficulties Under Guideline F
- Demonstrating Commitment to U.S. National Interests Despite Foreign Connections