Immigration officer : Entry requirements

No formal academic qualifications are required for immigration officer posts.

The UK Border Agency (UKBA)  has no graduate scheme of its own, but welcomes applications from graduates. Fluency in modern languages can be an advantage.

It is sometimes possible for graduates to enter through the Civil Service Fast Stream  route, which involves placements in several departments. However, an immigration posting cannot always be guaranteed. See the Fast Stream website for details of the scheme's entry criteria.

Applicants must be UK nationals with no restrictions on their stay in the UK. They should normally have lived in the UK continuously for five years prior to application, although graduates who have taken a gap year or course-related overseas placement may be eligible for consideration.

The sensitive nature of work carried out by the UK Border Agency means that security clearance is required for all posts. If selected for interview, candidates will be asked to complete a security questionnaire, which will explain the government's vetting policy.

For all permanent appointments, candidates must be able to give regular and effective service, and therefore will be asked to complete a health declaration and, if necessary, attend a medical examination.

Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

• strong oral and written communication skills;
• excellent interpersonal skills - firmness allied with courtesy and tact;
• common sense;
• patience;
• the ability to listen attentively;
• excellent organisational skills;
• the ability to analyse and interpret information quickly and accurately to reach sound decisions;
• attention to detail;
• calmness under pressure and the ability to meet tight deadlines;
• reliability;
• a confident and responsible approach to work;
• the ability to work independently and as part of a team;
• a good understanding of current affairs.

The recruitment process usually includes the initial application, which is assessed against set competency standards, some checks on nationality, health and other matters, to make sure you meet the eligibility criteria and attendance at an assessment centre where you will most likely undertake a written exercise, role play and an interview.

The UK Border Agency encourages a diverse workforce and uses a variety of measures to promote equal opportunities. A guaranteed interview scheme operates for people with disabilities who meet the residency and nationality requirements and who obtain the pre-determined pass mark on their application form.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.