Border Force Officer

Typical Salary

£23,000 To £31,000

Typical Hours

38 to 42 a week

evenings / weekends / bank holidays on shifts

How To Become a Border Force Officer

You can get into this job through:

an apprenticeship
working your way up
applying directly
a graduate training scheme

College / University

Apprenticeship

You could do a public service operational delivery advanced apprenticeship with the Civil Service.

2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths

Routes into this Career

You could join the Civil Service as a Border Force assistant officer, then apply for an officer post when vacancies become available.

To do this, you'll usually need 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including English and maths, or equivalent qualifications.

You could apply directly to become a Border Force officer. To enter at officer level, you may need at least 2 A levels at grade E or above, or equivalent qualifications.

Other Routes

You can apply through the Civil Service Fast Stream if you have a degree.

Skills And Knowledge

You'll need:

knowledge of public safety and security
patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
excellent verbal communication skills
the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
the ability to work well with others
knowledge of English language
customer service skills
to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Day To Day Tasks

In this role you could:

check travel documents and passports
question passengers about their reasons for visiting the UK
search people, luggage and vehicles
write case notes
work with the police and immigration officials on operations
attend court as a witness

Working Environment

You could work at a border post.

Your working environment may be physically demanding and outdoors in all weathers.

You may need to wear a uniform.

Career Path & Progression

You'll get continuous training during your first 6 to 12 months. Once you've passed your probationary period, you'll have the full responsibilities of a Border Force officer.

With experience you could become a team leader, or move into a management position. You could also use your skills to train and work with new staff.

You may also be able to apply for roles in other departments of the Home Office or Civil Service.

Volunteering Opportunities

Volunteering Opportunities are not listed for this job.

Tips & Information

Further information

You can find out more about working as a Border Force officer from Border Force and Civil Service Careers.

Restrictions & Requirements

You'll need to:

be a UK citizen
have lived in the UK for the last 5 years
pass enhanced background checks
pass security checks
pass a medical check
have a good level of fitness
have a full driving licence