Gaining security clearance for government positions can have a flake of time. Clearance times saw an uptick in the second quarter of 2021 and often change every bit demand changes. The more people needing security clearances, the longer the process may take. And then, how long is the security clearance process taking correct now?

Security Clearance Processing Times

Because of the loftier demand for the clearance organization, the process is taking anywhere from four to five months. Peak Secret clearance processing times are sitting around 159 days, on average. To gain Cloak-and-dagger clearance, the process is taking effectually 132 days. These processing times are for industry applicants. Processing times are slightly faster for Section of Defense civilians and service members.

Why the Uptick?

Not only is in that location a higher demand for clearances, simply the procedure in which they are being granted has changed due to seasonal employment and COVID-19. Both of these things have led to delays. While background investigators are notwithstanding at work, the individuals they need to get data from aren't always accessible. This leads to an increase in security clearance processing times overall.

Officials have pointed out that, while processing times are higher, things are yet moving forrard. At that place have been a lot of changes, including many groundwork investigators working remotely or working in staggered shifts. These changes to the overall procedure have definitely contributed to longer wait times for clearance.

On top of the changes to the concrete workspace, investigators besides accept a higher workload. As mentioned higher up, there is a higher demand for clearances. This is because there are more temporary or seasonal workers that need clearance. Additionally, there are occasional IT problems that investigators are facing.

Despite the longer processing times, in one case an applicant'south background has been checked, determination times have significantly decreased. Security clearance conclusion decisions were typically made between five and seven days.

Other Factors

While dealing with higher need, Information technology issues, COVID-xix restrictions, new work settings, and longer wait times, the Defense Office of Hearings and Appeals has too noted an increased number of Statement of Reasons (SoRs). They have been working to implement amend tracking procedures for SoRs and have been sending them directly to industry employees.

The Role of Hearings and Appeals has moved forrad with remote work procedures and is working to ensure there are not whatever major hiccups in the workflow. They recently started using a new communications arrangement for times where they are not able to access facilities or travel was not possible. This has largely immune the part to keep all investigations moving forrard, even if it has been at a slower than usual pace.

If y'all are looking for candidates with security clearances to brand the hiring process faster working with an agency similar the Staffing Resource Group can help. We can get candidates through the security clearance process before they are put in front of yous, meaning you get applicants who are gear up to go started. Larn more than well-nigh how we can aid yous in placing candidates with the proper clearances in your arrangement.

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