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Border Force officers protect UK border entry points like ports and airports, by enforcing immigration and customs regulations.
You could work: evenings / weekends / bank holidays; on shifts
There will be
0.2% fewer Border Force officer jobs in 2027.
In your local area
In this role you could:
You may need to wear a uniform.
You could work at a border post.
Your working environment may be physically demanding and outdoors in all weathers.
You can get into this job through:
You could do a college course which could help you to develop some of the skills and knowledge needed in this role.
Relevant courses include:
Level 3 Diploma in Public Services
You'll usually need:
You could do a public service operational delivery advanced apprenticeship with the Civil Service.
To do this apprenticeship, you'll need:
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.
You can apply through the Civil Service Fast Stream if you have a degree.
You'll need to:
You can find out more about working as a Border Force officer from Border Force and Civil Service Careers.
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.
You'll get regular training updates throughout your career to keep up to date and with experience you could become a senior Border Force officer.
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.