How long do federal investigations for Tier 4 typically last?

Tier 4, which is the Tier IV investigative process under the background check framework for federal employment, typically involves a more thorough investigation due to the higher level of sensitivity surrounding the positions it covers. The timeframe for these investigations is designed to ensure that all necessary information is collected and analyzed comprehensively, which can often take a significant amount of time.

Considering the complexities of federal investigations, including additional interviews, checks on financial history, and inquiries into foreign contacts, it is not uncommon for these investigations to span a period of 5-7 years. This duration reflects the need for an in-depth examination of an individual’s background to maintain security standards for sensitive roles.