Understanding AGSVA Security Clearance Fees: A Comprehensive Guide

Overview of AGSVA Security Clearance Levels
AGSVA manages different levels of security clearances, each corresponding to the sensitivity of the information the clearance holder will access:

• Baseline Clearance: Required for positions involving access to classified information up to and including PROTECTED-level information.
• NV1 (Negative Vetting Level 1): Required for access to SECRET-level information, involving a more thorough vetting process.
• NV2 (Negative Vetting Level 2): Required for access to TOP SECRET and TOP SECRET (SENSITIVE) information, with the most rigorous vetting process.

Detailed Breakdown of AGSVA Fees

• Vetting Fee for Baseline Clearance: $884
• Vetting Fee for NV1 Clearance: $1,355
• Vetting Fee for NV2 Clearance: $2,486
• Cancellation Fee for Baseline Clearance: $442
• Cancellation Fee for NV1 Clearance: $678
• Cancellation Fee for NV2 Clearance: $660

These fees cover the cost of background checks, interviews, and administrative processing. The complexity increases with the level of clearance, which explains the higher fees for NV1 and NV2 clearances.

Additional AusClear Fees
It’s important to note that AGSVA’s fees do not cover the full costs associated with obtaining and maintaining your security clearance through AusClear. Applicants working with AusClear should be aware of the following additional fees:

• Application Fee: Covers AusClear’s handling and submission of your security clearance application.
• ID Verification and National Police Check Fee: This fee covers the 100-point ID verification and police check that ensures you meet the necessary identity and background requirements.
• SecurePath Initiative Sponsorship Fee: This is an annual sponsorship fee that AusClear charges to maintain your security clearance and provide ongoing governance and support.

These fees are part of AusClear's commitment to supporting applicants through every step of the clearance process, from the initial application to the maintenance of your clearance through the SecurePath Initiative.

AGSVA Fees Explained
AGSVA’s vetting fee is the primary cost associated with obtaining a security clearance. This fee is charged for the comprehensive background checks, interviews, and assessments conducted to evaluate an applicant’s suitability. The vetting fee is charged only after the vetting process is complete:

• Baseline Clearance: $884
• NV1 Clearance: $1,355
• NV2 Clearance: $2,486

Cancellation Fees
If an applicant chooses to cancel their clearance application after submission, AGSVA charges a cancellation fee. This fee covers the costs incurred during the initial stages of the vetting process:

• Baseline Clearance Cancellation: $442
• NV1 Clearance Cancellation: $678
• NV2 Clearance Cancellation: $660

Payment Timing and Considerations
AGSVA fees are not payable until the clearance process is complete, which provides applicants some financial flexibility during the application process. Once the clearance is granted, AGSVA issues an invoice, typically payable within 30 days. It’s crucial to settle this invoice promptly to avoid suspension or revocation of the granted clearance.

In addition, AusClear’s fees may vary depending on the level of service you require. Some employers may reimburse clearance fees or provide financial assistance, particularly if a security clearance is required for your role. If applying through employment, it is advisable to confirm whether your employer can cover AusClear’s fees.

Key Considerations for Applicants
When applying for a security clearance, it’s important to consider both AGSVA’s fees and AusClear’s additional costs. The vetting fees reflect the complexity of the security clearance process, but AusClear’s services provide crucial support and governance, ensuring that your clearance is not only obtained but maintained in full compliance with security regulations.

Factors Influencing the Total Cost:

• Level of Clearance: Higher levels of clearance, such as NV1 or NV2, involve more rigorous vetting, resulting in higher fees.
• Complexity of Background Checks: More extensive travel, foreign contacts, or complex employment histories can increase the costs associated with vetting.
• Ongoing Sponsorship: AusClear’s SecurePath Initiative sponsorship helps you maintain your clearance, with an annual fee ensuring ongoing governance and compliance.

Conclusion
Understanding the costs associated with AGSVA’s security clearances and AusClear’s additional services is essential for anyone navigating the clearance process. By considering both sets of fees, applicants can better manage the financial and procedural aspects of obtaining and maintaining their clearance. Whether applying for Baseline, NV1, or NV2 clearance, AusClear’s SecurePath Initiative provides valuable ongoing support, ensuring that you meet all necessary security standards and maintain your clearance over time.

This comprehensive guide aims to help you prepare for the costs and requirements of your security clearance journey with confidence.