What PSI type is required for assignment to a NATO position with a final Top Secret clearance?

For assignment to a NATO position that requires a final Top Secret clearance, a Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI) is required. The SSBI is a comprehensive and thorough background investigation that is designed to assess an individual’s loyalty, reliability, and trustworthiness, ensuring that they can handle classified information without posing a security risk.

An SSBI encompasses various components, including a review of the individual’s personal history, character references, financial history, and interviews with neighbors and associates. This level of scrutiny is necessary for individuals who will be accessing sensitive national security information, particularly in an international and cooperative defense framework like NATO.

In contrast, the other types of investigations mentioned are not sufficient for such high-level positions. The Access National Agency Check with Inquiries (ANACI) is typically associated with lower security clearance levels and does not provide the depth of investigation needed for Top Secret clearances. A Credit and Criminal History Check primarily focuses on financial and criminal records, lacking the comprehensive nature of a full background investigation. Lastly, the Initial Background Investigation is usually a preliminary step that does not meet the requirements for obtaining a final Top Secret clearance necessary for NATO assignments.

In summary, the SSBI is the only investigation type that meets the strict criteria needed for the high