Immigration Officer
Controller Job Description
Immigration officers (or immigration enforcement officers) use their knowledge of the law to check whether people arriving in the country are allowed to enter. They also decide whether visitors are entitled to stay.
Immigration officers also investigate cases of illegal immigration or smuggling. This may involve interviewing witnesses and suspects, examining evidence such as financial records or phone records, and conducting surveillance operations.
Typical duties of a Controller
Roles and Responsibilities:
• Maintaining security at checkpoints or ports of entry to prevent illegal entry into the country
• Interviewing individuals who are applying for visas or other immigration documentation
• Collecting fingerprints, photographs, and other biometric data from applicants during the application process
• Interviewing applicants for citizenship to determine whether they meet the legal requirements for citizenship
• Investigating applicants’ backgrounds, including conducting interviews with family members and references, to determine eligibility for visas or citizenship applications
• Verifying an applicant’s identity by comparing it to government records, such as birth certificates, school transcripts, or criminal records
• Processing visa applications and petitions, such as work permits or green cards, to determine whether they should be granted
• Conducting inspections at ports of entry to ensure that all people entering the country have valid documentation
• Issuing notices of intent to fine or deport non-citizens who violate laws.
Essential skills:
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills when talking to people with limited English language ability
• The ability to work under pressure
• A good eye for detail
• The ability to work in a team.
Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in international studies.