Security Clearance Process

Security is vital at CSEC

Protecting national security and Canada's interests is what we do; that is why all candidates go through a rigorous screening process before becoming a Communications Security Establishment Canada (CSEC) employee.

Things to know before you apply

Basic requirements

  • You must be a Canadian citizen
  • You must be eligible for a Top Secret (Level III) security clearance as per the Government of Canada's Policy on Government Security as well as additional measures to conform with  CSEC's policies and standards

Security clearance process

  • It can take up to 6 months complete the Top Secret security clearance process at CSEC:
  • You will have to:
    • fill out a personal history questionnaire and consent form
    • meet with CSEC security personnel for an in-depth interview (it can last up to three hours)
    • be fingerprinted and photographed
    • submit to a two-part psychological assessment that includes a test and interview
    • undergo a polygraph examination to assess your loyalty to Canada
  • Credit and criminal checks will be carried out
  • The Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) will conduct a background investigation covering a minimum of your last 10 years (residence, employment, school, international travel, etc.)

You should also know that:

  • all positions are located in Ottawa, Ontario;
  • CSEC employees are persons permanently bound to secrecy, as per the Security of Information Act. Once employees have been served notice, they are bound to secrecy for as long as they live, whether they are still employed for CSEC or not.
  • CSEC has instituted a cohort hiring process with pre-determined intake dates.
  • CSEC is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. We encourage applications from the four employment equity groups (women, Aboriginal peoples, visible minorities and persons with disabilities).