How to Become an Immigration Service Officer

The job of an immigration officer entails protecting the country's borders, seashores and airports to ensure safety and security of the country. Due to the work immigration officers do in enforcing immigration laws, there are specific requirements and qualifications that they have to satisfy to be considered for employment in this field.

1. Know the nature of the job. Before you make a decision to work for the Immigration office, find out what the job entails. An immigration officer may be hired to work as a detention center officer, an information officer or an enforcement agent.


2. Become familiar with federal guidelines. There are federal requirements that you must meet in order to be eligible to work for the United States Immigration office. You must show proof of your U.S. citizenship, be under 40 years old, have a driver's license, pass a background check and written exam, and be physically fit.


3. Obtain a bachelor's degree before applying for job as an Immigration officer. While you can obtain your degree in any subject, it would be a good idea to major in a law related field, such as criminal justice and International law. It will also be of great help to learn a second or even third language.


4. Apply for a position. Once you have obtained your degree, you can complete and submit your application to the Immigration department. This can be done online by going to their website and following the links and instructions provided. You will be required to take a test that is specific to the job you are seeking. If you pass the test, you may be called for an interview and sent to training. 


5. Complete the training. After you have successfully completed the training, you will become an immigration officer. Your employment information, assignment, pay rate and other pertinent information will be provided to you.