CBP Officer

CBP Officer

CBPGuy

7 Years Experience

SouthWest, US

Male, 25

I am a U. S. Customs and Border Protection Officer on the southwest border between Mexico and the United States. I know the ins and outs of the job as seen on TV/News and things intentionally hidden from the media! There's more to this job than "Anything to declare?" I dont know all but I'll do my best to answer any questions you have! All answers are my opinion, and my opinion only!

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220 Questions

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Last Answer on April 22, 2019

Best Rated

I have noticed that CBP officers at the internal checkpoints (near but not at the Mexican border) are actually fairly courteous. Is this actually a less stressful post than, say, the Canadian border, where they tend to be more gruff?

Asked by Nicholas over 8 years ago

I have never worked the internal checkpoints, so I am not quite sure. The only thing I can think of is there is much less pressure for the checkpoints inside than the border. Officers at the border are hounded by management, who is hounded by their Port Director, who is hounded by the Director of Field Operations, who is hounded by congressmen/chambers of commerce/politicians regarding border wait times. The unfortunate truth is, there are a lot of politics involved with this job. Sometimes, the politics take priority of getting the job done right.

If a foreigner entered the country as a tourist for a month, but did a little bit of work and paid taxes on it, would that likely come up as a reason for entry refusal on his next visit (i.e. do CBP and IRS communicate to that level)?

Asked by Questioner1 about 9 years ago

Legally, I cant comment on the level of communication between different branches of the government. What I can tell you is that it is in fact illegal to work as a visitor. This would be cause for a Expedited Removal.

Last firearm arm question, because most POE are in rural areas, are you allowed to also travel with a rifle/shotgun, etc ? Even though you have an issued sidearm, is that possible? For extra protection?

Asked by Andrew over 8 years ago

For work purposes, you are only allowed to carry, on duty, agency issued weapons. If it is not agency issued, you should not have it. However, some POE's may have different policies in regards to that due to being out in rural areas. I have been to a couple POE's and the rules have been the same (Agency issued only).

Hi If I am given a firm offer of employment how long will I have to move to my post?(pre and post academy) Do you recommend getting an apartment while at the pre-academy duty location so I have a place to return upon completing the academy? Thanks

Asked by ValCBPOCandidate over 8 years ago

If you receive a firm offer of employment, generally its only a month or so before you report for Pre-Academy. I would recommend renting a room or an apartment for the 30 days of pre-academy. It would not make financial sense to keep the place while your at FLETC. During your last month at FLETC is when you want to start searching for apartments or possibly return to something that is month-to-month until you are more situated.

I am on bail, but it doesnt state any trave restriction. Im Permanent Resident. I want to go putside the country, but Im concern about my return.

Asked by erm989 over 8 years ago

I would contact the judge or probation officer for a travel letter. Make sure you have permission to leave the country prior to traveling. We do receive alerts for active warrants and we do make those arrests. Please, use due diligence and make sure everything is in order prior to leaving the country. From my experience, anyone on bail cannot leave the US.

I am currently an NYPD officer began the process for CBP for position at Richford, VT is it worth the transfer from NYPD to CBP?

Asked by Annoly Ramos over 8 years ago

To be honest with you, the job satisfaction working for NYPD is much greater than working for CBP. Also, you currently have better retirement benefits with NYPD. However, you will be paid much more with CBP and also have the opportunity to travel the world (if you want to).

Its up to you on what is more important.

What are your thoughts or tips on women applying for the CBPO position?

Asked by MLopezP over 8 years ago

Do it! We need your help! All law enforcement agencies are in desperate need of female officers, not just CBP.

My biggest tip is to have thick skin. Your brothers in blue will be your biggest support as the people crossing the border size you up every day.