Border police

What does a border police officer do? – Tasks and work environment

A border police officer works to monitor and control the country's borders, both on land, at sea, and at airports. Responsibilities include inspecting travelers, identifying suspected violations of immigration laws, and handling individuals without the right to stay in the country. Border officers often collaborate with other authorities and international organizations. The work involves a high degree of independent decision-making in varied environments. The position can include day shifts and shifts at short notice, sometimes with rapid changes, and the work environment is often dynamic, involving both routine tasks and urgent interventions.

Salary development over time

Border police salaries have shown a clear increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 38,800 SEK, which increased to 40 800 SEK in 2023 and further to 44,100 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to a total increase of just over 13.7% during the period. The salary increase can partly be explained by increased demand for specialist skills in border control, changing societal needs, and a general focus on strengthening the attractiveness of the justice system. Education level and experience have also gained greater importance in salary setting, meaning experienced border police officers are now more rewarded for their competence and responsibility. The positive trend is expected to continue as long as the need for effective border control remains on the agenda.

Border police salary – a complete overview

• Average salary: 44,100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 42,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Highest salary: 49,200 SEK/month (male, public sector, research degree)
• Hourly wage: 265 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn on average 43 300 SEK, men 44 500 SEK – women earn 97% of what men do
• Regional differences: No specific statistics available, but salary levels may vary depending on location and organizational needs

Education and qualifications

To work as a border police officer, a complete police degree is required, which involves completed police training followed by practical service. Subsequently, internal specialization within border control, including specific courses and further training, takes place. In addition to formal requirements, experience from operational police work and good language skills are valued.

• Police training: 2.5 years (combination of theory and practice)
• Internal specialization course: Border control and migration law
• Experience: Operational police work after graduation
• Language skills: Swedish and English, additional languages are an advantage
• Prerequisites: Swedish citizenship, approved security clearance

Common benefits and compensations

Among the most common benefits for border police officers are extra compensation for unsocial hours, access to wellness grants, and participation in pension schemes and insurance. Opportunities for skills development, extended leave, and sometimes advantageous loans or discounts within government agreements are also available. Shift work and on-call duties can provide additional allowances.

Competition and challenges

The job market for border police officers is characterized by fluctuating recruitment needs, with demand increasing during societal or political changes. The profession requires high stress tolerance, flexibility, and the ability to handle complex situations with integrity. Competition for positions is often moderate, but specialized skills and language abilities can provide advantages. A challenge is also to quickly adapt to new regulations and technical systems, which requires ongoing training. However, detailed statistics on the labor market situation are lacking, making precise assessments difficult.

Tips for those wishing to become a border police officer

To succeed as a border police officer, it is good to be both proactive and analytical. Strong physical and mental endurance facilitates work in environments where the pace can shift rapidly between calm and intense scenarios. Precision is crucial for making correct assessments under pressure, and communication skills help manage interactions with people from diverse backgrounds. An interest in societal issues and the ability to collaborate with other authorities or international actors are also valuable. Staying updated on new regulations and technological tools used in border control is recommended. Being adaptable and curious about new working methods can also create good career opportunities within the profession.

Key facts about Border Police

• Education level: Police degree (2.5 years) + internal specialization
• Work environment: Shift work, often in international environments
• Employment form: State employment, operational and sometimes administrative roles
• Demand: About 191 available jobs within the profession
• Special skills: Migration law, languages, international cooperation

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a border police officer, opportunities open for further career development in areas such as international task forces, management roles, or specialization in areas like human trafficking and organized crime. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's occupational forecasts, no detailed assessment is available due to limited data, but the general trend within police careers indicates a stable demand, especially for specialized roles. Opportunities to work abroad or within EU border agencies are also available for those seeking further development. Career paths are relatively broad and offer both operational and strategic roles.

Frequently asked questions about Border Police

• What does a Border Police officer earn?
  - A border police officer has an average salary of 44,100 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a border police officer?
  - Police degree (2.5 years) plus internal specialization in border control is required.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 43 300 SEK and men 44 500 SEK per month.
• What is the job market outlook for border police?
  - There are 191 available jobs, but no exact forecast is available.
• What qualities are important for a border police officer?
  - Stress tolerance, accuracy, communication skills, and adaptability are key qualities.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a border police officer?
  - The highest salary is 49,200 SEK (male, research degree), the lowest is 42,500 SEK (female, post-secondary education 3+ years).
• Can you work abroad as a border police officer?
  - Yes, there are opportunities for international assignments, especially within EU border agencies.