A proper PA request is one in which you are requesting records on yourself that are contained in files retrievable by your name or another personal identifier. Your request should include as much detail as possible to identify the specific information you are requesting. To assist you in determining the kinds of records that the NRO keeps, please refer to the list of Systems of Records Notices.
Your request must include the following information. Failure to include this information may result in processing delays or make it impossible for us to process your request.
- Your full name
- Your complete mailing address
- Your date of birth
- Your place of birth
- Your citizenship
- A clear description of the records you are requesting
Notarize your letter or sign it under penalty of perjury pursuant to 28 U.S.C. 1746 (Example: “I declare under penalty of perjury pursuant to 28 U.S.C. 1746, that the foregoing is true and correct.”) to ensure that records concerning you are only released to you. If requesting through an attorney, an original notarized statement or statement signed under penalty of perjury (pursuant to 28 U.S.C. 1746) authorizing us to release information to your attorney must be included.
Download the NRO's Privacy Act Request Submission Form. using the Firefox web browser 
There are four convenient ways to submit your PA submission form:
- By Email: FOIA@nro.mil
- By postal service or other commercial delivery:
National Reconnaissance Office
Attn: COMM/Information Review and Release Group
14675 Lee Road
Chantilly, VA 20151-1715
- By fax: 703-745-0833
- Electronically: FOIA.gov
Average Processing Time
It is difficult to provide an "average" processing time, as requests vary in their scope and complexity. Actual processing time will depend upon:
- How extensive a search is required
- The complexity, volume and sensitivity of the records located
- The need for consultation among various offices within the NRO
- The need to consult with other entities having an equity in the material
- The number of cases preceding a request in the processing queue
Requests are processed on a "first-in, first-out" basis, based on the origination date of the request.
Expedited Processing
A request will be expedited if the requester seeks such processing and demonstrates a compelling need, as defined by the FOIA, or a need for expedited treatment, as detailed in Department of Defense Manual 5400.07.
To check the status of a request, please contact the FOIA Requester Service Center at (703) 745-0600.