What is the purpose of FIS Tier 3 and Tier 5 investigations?

The purpose of FIS (Federal Investigative Standards) Tier 3 and Tier 5 investigations centers on making initial national security eligibility determinations. These tiers are designed to assess an individual's trustworthiness, reliability, and loyalty to the United States, which are crucial for positions that require access to classified national security information.

Tier 3 investigations focus on individuals in positions of moderate risk, evaluating financial responsibility, personal conduct, and criminal history. Tier 5 investigations, which apply to those in high-risk positions, involve a more extensive review including a comprehensive assessment of an individual's life, character, and associations.

This rigorous vetting process is essential to national security as it helps ensure that individuals granted access to sensitive information do not pose a risk to the integrity of that information.