What will you do?
You check the goods, verify that all documents are in order and collect import duties and excise duties. Whether you work as a customs official or as a customs and excise controller, you always follow the safety regulations and the legislation. The job combines outdoor work with control tasks for the government.
- Check customs documents and inspect goods
- Collect import duties and excise duties
- Draw up official reports for offences or crimes
- Patrol and keep watch in the field
- Carry out risk analyses
- Plan activities and record your findings
- Work safely, carefully and in line with the legislation
Skills to develop
- Integrity and a clean criminal record
- Accuracy when checking documents and goods
- Physically fit for patrols and outdoor work
- Knowledge of several languages is an asset in an international environment
Your foundation for this occupation
Customs officer is a public-service role with formal selection and job-specific conditions. Check official Finance vacancies for education and screening. A commercial customs-document course does not make you an officer. The employer trains assigned duties.
From preparation to your first day
Develop the practical skills
Compare documents and goods descriptions carefully and record facts. Ask about desk, field and analytical work. Practise evidence-based reasoning. Formal checks follow appointment and procedures.
Check your work
Check source, completeness and consistency. Separate findings from conclusions and protect confidential information. Explain handling uncertainty and responsibility in selection. Colleagues must understand the file.
How can you grow?
Specialise in control areas, casework, analysis or leadership. Ports, airports and offices differ. Ask about shifts, location and field duties; not every role involves patrols.
Frequently asked questions
Is a customs declarant a customs officer?
No. Declarants prepare declarations for businesses or clients; officers act for government under its authority. Knowledge may overlap but selection and responsibility differ.