Immigration Officer

Immigration Officers implement and enforce laws, regulations and Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) policies.

Immigration Officer Job Description

Screen passports, passengers and goods at checkpoints when they arrive and depart.

Uphold preventive measures and conduct raids against illegal immigrants.

Detain people found to violate customs and immigration regulations.

Take part in operations against smugglers and counter-terrorism efforts.

Practise customs and immigration laws, regulations and policies.

Note

Immigration Officers do not just chop passports, they are usually rotated in different deployments like immigration clearance or checking vehicles or cargo.

A day in the life

ICA Officer

ICA Officers are at the forefront of Singapore's security, with strict training, they oversee thousands of travellers' exit and entry in and out of Singapore.

Immigration Officer

Think being an Immigration Officer is boring? Watch to find out how action-packed their day can get.

What you should know about Immigration Officer jobs in Singapore

Nature of Work

You have to be alert when doing immigration clearance. If something appears off, there is no time for indecisiveness.

Key Advice

As an Immigration Officer, you have to be very observant as smugglers and immigrants may try to enter Singapore through the checkpoint.

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements
Minimally an 'O' Level or Nitec qualification is needed for the Sergeant role, while a bachelor's degree in any discipline is needed for the Inspector role.

It will be useful for you to be well-versed in different languages as you will meet and communicate with people from different nationalities.
Possible Pathway

Possible Pathway

Skills you may need to pursue an Immigration Officer career in Singapore

Hard Skills

Behavioural Analysis

Interpreting human behaviour to identify potential threats or suspicious activities.

Screening

Examining individuals, luggage, or cargo to ensure compliance with security and safety regulations.

Basic Unarmed Combat

Trained in fundamental self-defence techniques for personal protection and restraint.

Soft Skills

Attention to Detail

Observe and focus on the finer points, ensuring accuracy and precision in tasks and decisions.

Decision Making

Make considered choices guided by critical analysis and sound judgement.

Problem-Solving

Adept at swiftly identifying and resolving complex issues through creative thinking and effective strategies.

“Managing travellers that pass through immigrations fall on the shoulders of the officers from ICA.”

DSP Nazeera Edrahim, ICA Assistant Commander

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between ICA Sergeants and ICA Inspectors?

ICA Sergeants screen passports and passengers while participating in investigations to detect illegal activities. ICA Inspectors, on the other hand, take on a greater leadership role in managing the operations of ICA’s various branches and commands. They are trained in border security, in-land enforcement and policy implementation.
What is the training like for ICA Officers?

ICA Officers undergo training to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills, like control and restraint techniques, to perform their duties. Sergeants will undergo a 16-week non-residential ICA Basic Course (Sergeant) at the Home Team Academy, while newly appointed Inspectors will undergo a 20-week non-residential ICA Basic Course (Inspector).
What must ICA Officers take into account when doing a background check on an immigrant?

Common factors to consider include identity verification, criminal history, national security concerns, immigration violations and family ties.
What are the physical requirements of the job?

The requirements can vary depending on the agency or organisation. Generally speaking, some requirements include physical fitness, good vision and hearing, mobility and dexterity.
Do Immigration Officers need to learn a second language?

While not mandatory, learning a second language can be highly beneficial due to the high volume of foreign people they will be interacting with.