Getting defense jobs abroad - security clearances
 

It seems defense workers are generally screwed. Most countries seem to require security clearances and have rigid eligibility requirements.

But there are some exceptions. For example, many defense sector jobs in the U.S. do not require clearances. And I believe foreign nationals can get a clearance in Australia and New Zealand as long as they intend to become a citizen. OTOH, the UK requires a clearance for every defense related job, and clearances can only be held by citizens.

Those are the only exceptions I know of. I'm hoping others will post in this thread to collect information about other countries that welcome or block foreign defense workers.

Re: Getting defense jobs abroad - security clearances
 

Rules on clearances are one thing, the application of them is generally as clear as mud.

In the UK anybody can have a clearance, but some organisations (e.g. the one based out of a doughnut shaped building in cheltenham) won't sponsor a foreign national for clearance unless there's a pressing need.

If the organisation is willing to sponsor somebody who's not a british citizen for clearance, it'll happen eventually but the checks will take longer (I've had personal experience of this).

Cheers

LG