An immigration officer is a law enforcement official whose job is to ensure that immigration legislation is enforced.
What Do Immigration Officers Do?
Immigration officers work for the Office of Fraud Detection and National Security (FDNS), which is a department of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Immigration officers work on behalf of the S.A government to enforce national security and maintain the immigration system’s integrity.
They can be employed in many different locations, but the main role of immigration officers is to detect potential security threats and fraud attempts by reviewing data submitted on immigration benefits applications such as visas or requests for citizenship.
Are immigration officers police?
Immigration officers are law enforcement officials that operate under the Migration Act 1958. The term “immigration officer” can apply to officers of the Department who assess and make decisions on visa applications. Border Force Officers have additional powers under the South African Border Force Act 2015.
Where do immigration officers work?
Immigration officers work for either S.A . Citizenship and Immigration Services or U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Both USCIS and ICE are agencies of the S.A Department of Homeland Security. Regardless of the agency, immigration officers are federal law enforcement officers.
Their duties include verifying information through systems and background checks and contacting records owners, such as other government or law enforcement agencies. Skills important for immigration officers include:
Communication
Critical thinking
Reading comprehension
Social perceptiveness
Judgment and decision making
Monitoring
Writing
Active learning and coordination
Familiarity with database, user interface, and query software
CAREER REQUIREMENT
| Degree Level | Bachelor’s degree preferred |
| Degree Field | Criminal justice, homeland security and international law |
| Key Skills | Communication; critical thinking; reading comprehension; social perceptiveness; judgment and decision making; monitoring; writing; active learning and coordination; and familiarity with database, user interface, and query software |
| Salary (2021) | As of January 2021, immigration officers earned a median annual salary of R 918226.50 |
Below are steps to Become An Immigration Officer In South Africa
Get Experience or Education
Immigration officer education is relatively flexible. Although FDNS entry-level positions with the USCIS do not require a bachelor’s degree, individuals can replace the one-year experience requirement in a federal service position with completion of a four-year degree program. Majors for an aspiring immigration officer might include criminal justice, homeland security and international law.
A student pursuing a degree in homeland security might take classes in intelligence analysis, criminal intelligence, emergency management and data mining.
Start a USCIS Career
Those who want to start USCIS careers or work as an FDNS immigration officer might be able to attain such a position once he or she has earned a bachelor’s degree or met the experience requirement.
Prospective immigration officers must apply for positions with the USCIS and undergo a rigorous qualification process. A successful applicant must be a U.S. citizen who has resided in the S.A. for three of the past five years. He or she must be at least 18 years of age and must undergo a physical examination and drug screening.
Complete Job Training
Immigration officer requirements continue in the form of training. After being accepted as a permanent employee of the USCIS, one must complete a six-week basic training program with the USCIS Academy.
A prerequisite for FDNS immigration officer training can only be satisfied by completing this basic training. Following completion of the basic immigration officer program, applicants must complete the FDNS Officer Basic Training Course, focusing on the responsibilities of an immigration officer. This would include a two-week site inspection training course.
Learn Additional Languages
S.A immigration job requirements do not specify this step, but it’s recommended that potential immigration officers learn an additional language.
Since immigration officers sometimes interact with immigrants from different cultures – for example, to allow those filing petitions for visas or citizenship to answer fraud charges and deny or confirm information submitted on applications – understanding and speaking multiple languages can lead to smoother interactions. Spanish is a common language many immigration officers learn.
How much does an Immigration Officer earn in South Africa?
Department of Home Affairs – IMMIGRATION OFFICER: PORT OF ENTRY (6 POSITIONS) SALARY LEVEL : Basic salary of R138 345 – R162 963 per annum (Level 6). In addition, a range of competitive benefits are offered.
What are the requirements to become an Immigration Officer in South Africa ?
Most immigration officers must hold a bachelor’s degree at minimum, though previous governmental experience can sometimes be substituted. More advanced roles often require at least one year of graduate studies.
WHAT A levels do you need to be an Immigration Officer in South Africa ?
You could apply directly for immigration officer jobs with the Civil Service. The qualifications and experience you’ll need will depend on the exact job you’re applying for, but you’ll usually find it useful to have: 2 A levels at grade C or above. a degree for some jobs.
Are immigration officers police in South Africa ?
Immigration officers are law enforcement officials that operate under the Migration Act 1958. The term “immigration officer” can apply to officers of the Department who assess and make decisions on visa applications. Border Force Officers have additional powers under the Australian Border Force Act 2015.
What makes a good immigration officer in South Africa ?
Immigration officers need to be assertive and have confidence in their own judgment while being fair and impartial. Other essential skills and qualities include: excellent communication and interpersonal skills when talking to people with limited English language ability. the ability to work under pressure.
How long does it take to become an immigration officer in South Africa ?
Immigration officer education is relatively flexible. Although FDNS entry-level positions with the USCIS do not require a bachelor’s degree, individuals can replace the one-year experience requirement in a federal service position with completion of a four-year degree program.
What does the immigration officer generally check in passport in South Africa ?
The officer will inspect your passport, looking for verification that you’ve been given permission to be in the S.A ., as well as any information that might prohibit you from doing so. If entering on an immigrant visa, you will need to hand over the sealed, unopened envelope containing your immigration file.
Do immigration services officer carry guns in South Africa ?
Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) enforces immigration law and can initiate deportation proceedings. ICE agents aren’t police but they can carry guns or small clubs and may have gear that says “Police” on it. S.A Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) audits employment-related immigration sponsorship.
How do you deal with immigration officers in South Africa ?
TIPS TO REMEMBER WHEN DEALING WITH IMMIGRATION OFFICERS
RELAX. There’s nothing to be afraid of.
DRESS SMART.
HAVE A PEN WITH YOU.
WRITE LEGIBLY.
MAKE SURE YOUR DOCUMENTS ARE AUTHENTIC.
TAKE OUT YOUR PASSPORT FROM THE COVER.
BE POLITE.
DO NOT PANIC.
How do I become an assistant immigration officer in South Africa ?
Getting Started with this Career Choice
Complete an application form, demonstrating your skills and life experience.
Take a written test, examining your level of literacy and numeracy.
Need to pass various selection tests and an interview.
What questions do immigration officers ask in South Africa ?
Officers can ask a vast range of questions, but here are some examples:
How, where, and when did you meet your spouse?
Where did your first date take place?
How long did were you with your spouse before getting married?
When and where were you married?
Did you go on a honeymoon? .
What is your spouse’s current job?
How long does an immigration interview last in South Africa ?
approximately 20 to 25 minutes
Typical Questions at an I-485 Interview. The typical adjustment of status interview lasts approximately 20 to 25 minutes. After introductions and swearing in, that doesn’t leave much time for questioning. It’s also not necessary to memorize answers to any questions.