Turvallisuusselvitys

Turvallisuusselvitys is a formal background assessment used in Finland to determine a person’s suitability for handling security-sensitive information or for access to protected facilities. The procedure is applied in national government work, defense, border control, critical infrastructure, and in some private-sector roles where the employer handles or relies on sensitive information or operations. A clearance is granted when the person is deemed reliable enough to prevent harm to national security or public safety; it may also include conditions or limits on access.

Finnish legislation governs the process, which is conducted by a designated authority. The assessment draws on information from various sources such as criminal records, tax and pension data, employment history, education, and personal references. In many cases the process includes an interview and an evaluation of risk factors such as loyalties to foreign states, substance abuse, or associations that could present a security risk.

Consent and privacy: Personal data are processed for the purpose of the assessment and kept in accordance with data-protection rules. Applicants are informed of what data are collected and have rights to access their records, request corrections, and appeal decisions.

Outcomes and duration: The decision can be to grant a clearance, grant a clearance at a restricted level, deny, or impose specific conditions. Clearances are typically time-limited and subject to periodic re-evaluation or review, especially if the job changes or risk factors emerge.

Relation to other processes: A security clearance does not automatically confer a right to work; it is a permission tied to a particular role. Any revocation can be triggered by significant new information or misconduct.