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Immigration / Customs Inspector

Quick Facts

Median Salary$63,781
Most Common EducationPh.D. or professional degree
Projected 10-Year Growth+48.48%
Assessment MatchTake the Assessment

What They Do

An Immigration or Customs Inspector inspects people and goods crossing the border to ensure legal entry to the United States. Inspects passports and other paperwork, and may inspect luggage; inspects cargo and checks rosters of cargo being shipped; checks for illegal items or items subject to tax.


Core Tasks:

  • Examine immigration applications, visas, and passports and interview persons to determine eligibility for admission, residence, and travel in the U.S.
  • Detain persons found to be in violation of customs or immigration laws and arrange for legal action, such as deportation.
  • Inspect cargo, baggage, and personal articles entering or leaving U.S. for compliance with revenue laws and U.S. customs regulations.
  • Locate and seize contraband, undeclared merchandise, and vehicles, aircraft, or boats that contain such merchandise.
  • Interpret and explain laws and regulations to travelers, prospective immigrants, shippers, and manufacturers.
  • Institute civil and criminal prosecutions and cooperate with other law enforcement agencies in the investigation and prosecution of those in violation of immigration or customs laws.
  • Testify regarding decisions at immigration appeals or in federal court.
  • Record and report job-related activities, findings, transactions, violations, discrepancies, and decisions.
  • Determine duty and taxes to be paid on goods.
  • Collect samples of merchandise for examination, appraisal, or testing.

What to expect as an Immigration / Customs Inspector

1Earn a Ph.D. or professional degree

35% of people achieve this level of education.

2Gain skills and experience

See Immigration / Customs Inspector related courses on Tallo

3Land a job

1144 openings for Immigration / Customs Inspectors

Career Progression

in United States (Nation)

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