International Students Joining Us Police: What's The Verdict?

International students or non-US citizens who are interested in joining the US police force may be eligible to do so, depending on the state. While federal and sheriff roles require US citizenship, some states such as California, Maine, West Virginia, New York, Alaska, and Hawaii accept non-citizen applications, with varying requirements. In California, for example, a permanent resident with a green card can apply if they have already filed for citizenship. In Maine, a green card is sufficient to become a state trooper, but in Portland, one must be within 18 months of becoming a citizen to be a police officer. Joining the US military is another option to gain eligibility for expedited naturalization and a potential pathway to becoming a police officer.

International students can attend training programs at Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC)

International students can attend training programs at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC) on a space-available and reimbursable basis. The FLETC is an interagency law enforcement training body for 105 United States government federal law enforcement agencies. Its mission is to "train those who protect our homeland". The FLETC offers tuition-free and low-cost training to state, local, campus, and tribal law enforcement agencies.

To apply for a training program at the FLETC, international students must submit their applications to the ITD International Coordinator for processing. The FLETC has oversight and program management responsibilities for the International Law Enforcement Academies (ILEA) in Gaborone, Botswana; San Salvador, El Salvador; and Lima, Peru. It also supports training at ILEAs in Budapest, Hungary, and Bangkok, Thailand.

To apply for a place on a training program, international students must submit the following:

• All required forms and documents to the FLETC's International Training Division (ITD) at least 60 days before the first day of training.
• A DHS Foreign National Screening Request Form (DHS FORM 11055) to the ITD International Coordinator, along with a legible copy of the applicant's passport and visa, if applicable.
• A FLETC Form (121-00-03) Foreign National Financial Reimbursement to the ITD International Coordinator.
• An Agency Endorsement Letter from the nearest U.S. Embassy's Regional Security Officer or sponsoring agency, on official letterhead, and provided directly to ITD 60 days before the training start date.

Upon arrival at the FLETC, international students must present the completed Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers Student Registration Form, FTC-SEM-30, at the registration window in Building 1. If the form has not been completed in advance, it must be completed before approaching the registration window. Students must also bring personal identification with a photograph (e.g., passport, agency identification card, or driver's license). If driving on the FLETC campus, a valid driver's license, vehicle license plate number, and, if the vehicle is rented, a copy of the lease agreement are also required.

It is important to note that, while international students can attend training programs at the FLETC, becoming a police officer in the USA as a foreigner typically requires US citizenship or, at least, a work permit and alien resident card. Certain states, including Colorado, Maine, West Virginia, California, New York, Alaska, and Hawaii, accept non-citizen applications.

Requirements for international students to join the US police

International students who want to join the US police face a number of requirements, which vary depending on the state. In some states, only US citizens are eligible to become police officers. However, certain states, including California, Colorado, Maine, New York, Alaska, Hawaii, and Illinois, accept non-citizen applications. In Colorado, for example, a work permit and alien resident card are sufficient, while in Illinois, non-US citizens can become police officers if they are lawful permanent residents (green card holders).

To apply for a position in the US police as an international student, you must contact the ITD International Coordinator to inquire about available spaces. If space is available, all required documents must be received and approved before a seat can be reserved. The required documents include a completed DHS Foreign National Screening Request Form (DHS FORM 11055), a legible copy of the applicant's passport and visa (if applicable), and a completed FLETC Form (121-00-03) Foreign National Financial Reimbursement. These forms must be submitted at least 60 days before the start date of training. Upon arrival at the FLETC, applicants must present the completed Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers Student Registration Form, along with personal identification with a photograph (e.g., passport, driver's license).

It is important to note that even in states that accept non-citizen applications, there may be restrictions based on federal immigration and firearm laws. For example, federal law prevents individuals who are in the US unlawfully or who entered the country under a non-immigrant visa from obtaining or carrying a firearm, which may impact their eligibility to become police officers.

US states that allow non-US citizens to become police officers

As of 2023, a few US states allow non-US citizens to become police officers. These include California, Illinois, Colorado, Utah, Maryland, and Tennessee. While the specific requirements vary by state, the general eligibility criteria for non-US citizens to become police officers typically involve lawful permanent residency, legal authorization to work in the US, and the ability to lawfully possess a firearm.

In California, Senate Bill 960, which came into effect on January 1, 2023, removed the citizenship requirement for police officers. Now, anyone with the proper legal authorization to work in the state, such as a green card or visa, can become a police officer. This change aims to address the shortage of police officers in the state and bring police recruitment in line with other professions that do not restrict non-citizens from joining.

Illinois has also amended its police certification statute through Public Act 103-0357, allowing non-US citizens to become police officers within the state. However, this law is quite narrow in scope and applies only to lawful permanent residents (green card holders), individuals granted asylum protection, or those protected from deportation under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) process.

Colorado is another state that does not have a citizenship requirement for law enforcement positions. However, non-US citizens must still meet certain criteria, such as providing confirmation of high school or equivalent education and being able to lawfully possess a firearm.

Utah made a similar change in 2021, allowing non-citizens to become police officers. The bill removed the requirement of being a "permanent" legal resident, extending eligibility to Dreamers, or young people without legal status brought to the US as children. However, due to the uncertain legal status of Dreamers, they may still face challenges in meeting the eligibility criteria.

Maryland and Tennessee have also removed citizenship requirements for law enforcement positions, but specifically for permanent lawful residents who have been honorably discharged from the US military. This change recognizes the service of individuals who have protected the country and allows them to continue serving their communities as law enforcement officers.

While these states have taken steps to include non-US citizens in their police forces, it is important to note that each state has its own specific requirements and limitations. Additionally, even within these states, individual cities and law enforcement agencies may have their own citizenship requirements, demonstrating the complex nature of law enforcement eligibility in the US.

Permanent residency requirements to become a police officer in Canada

To become a police officer in Canada, you must have permanent status in the country. This can be achieved through various routes, including obtaining permanent residency, Canadian citizenship, or refugee status. Each province has its own set of requirements, but some general criteria apply across the country.

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is a popular pathway for skilled workers, including police officers, to immigrate and work in a specific province. With a provincial nomination, your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score increases by 600 points, which almost guarantees an invitation to apply for Canadian permanent residence. To be eligible for PNP, you must meet the required CRS score and apply through Express Entry. Once you receive a nomination, you become a permanent resident after living and working in the province for two years.

In addition to permanent residency, you must meet other requirements to become a police officer in Canada. These include a minimum age of 18 years, a valid driver's license, a good driving record, and certifications in first aid and CPR. Some provinces, like British Columbia, may require additional academic credits.

Police officers in Canada experience relatively low unemployment rates and earn competitive salaries. The job market for police officers is expected to remain strong in the coming years, making it an attractive career option for newcomers with the necessary credentials and training.

While the exact process and requirements may vary depending on the province and police force, obtaining permanent residency through the Provincial Nominee Program is a viable pathway to becoming a police officer in Canada. It is important to check the specific criteria for your desired province and police service before applying.

Relevant work experience to become a police officer

While a police officer position is typically an entry-level job that does not require prior experience, relevant work experience can give you an advantage during the recruitment process and help you determine if this career path is right for you.

Security and Military Experience

Experience in security or the military can be highly relevant to police work. For instance, you could highlight skills in monitoring security camera footage, patrolling premises, and responding to emergencies. Additionally, if you have experience in designing and implementing security protocols or procedures, this can showcase your ability to think strategically and contribute to policy development.

Customer Service and Communication Skills

Police officers frequently interact with the public, so customer service experience can be beneficial. Emphasize your ability to handle difficult conversations, de-escalate situations, and provide excellent service to a diverse range of individuals. Strong communication skills are essential for police officers, so any work experience that showcases your ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, will be an asset.

Leadership and Teamwork

Leadership experience, whether through previous jobs, school projects, or sports teams, demonstrates your ability to take initiative, motivate others, and work collaboratively. Police officers often work in teams, so highlighting your teamwork skills is crucial. Discuss instances where you successfully led a team through a challenging situation or resolved conflicts within a group.

Volunteering and Community Work

Volunteering or community work demonstrates your dedication to serving others and can be especially relevant if it involves working with vulnerable populations, promoting community safety, or resolving conflicts. Discuss any initiatives or programs you participated in that positively impacted your community and enhanced your problem-solving skills.

Foreign Language Proficiency

If you are fluent in multiple languages, this can be a significant asset for police departments serving diverse communities. Highlight your language skills and explain how they can help improve community relations, facilitate effective communication, and bridge cultural gaps.

Remember, when showcasing your work experience, focus on measurable impacts and specific examples of how you made a positive difference in your previous roles. Emphasize your adaptability, decision-making skills, and commitment to serving justice and protecting your community.

Frequently asked questions