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Immigration Officer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

VA

$51K/yr

S. borders and upholding immigration laws, playing a key role in defending our nation ... experienced officer, supporting arrests of individuals accused of violating federal, state, or ...

VA · On-site

$51K/yr

S. borders and upholding immigration laws, playing a key role in defending our nation ... experienced officer, supporting arrests of individuals accused of violating federal, state, or ...

S. borders and upholding immigration laws, playing a key role in defending our nation ... experienced officer, supporting arrests of individuals accused of violating federal, state, or ...

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Showing results 1-20

Immigration Officer information

See Virginia salary details

$32.2K

$61.6K

$102.6K

How much do immigration officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for immigration officer in Virginia is $61,615.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,100.00 and $73,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an immigration officer?

Immigration Officers are government officials responsible for enforcing immigration laws and regulations. They review and assess visa applications, interview individuals seeking entry into a country, and check travel documents at borders and airports. Their duties also include identifying and preventing illegal entry, detaining individuals who violate immigration laws, and assisting with deportation processes. Immigration Officers play a crucial role in maintaining national security while facilitating legal travel and migration.

What does an immigration officer do?

Immigration jobs focus on government and legal positions that deal with immigration cases. The jobs in this area include titles like immigration customs agent, immigration case manager, immigration officer, and immigration attorney. Your primary goal in this field is to coordinate immigration efforts, assist people on the path to citizenship or naturalization, and uphold the rights of applicants. A small number of immigration jobs exist within large corporations whose global work often requires moving employees between countries. With a career in immigration, you may visit courtrooms to argue cases, fill out visa or citizenship paperwork, conduct background checks, help immigrants find housing, or connect immigrants with social services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an immigration officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Immigration Officer, you need a solid understanding of immigration laws, investigative techniques, and typically a relevant degree or law enforcement background. Familiarity with case management systems, biometric identification tools, and document verification technologies is essential. Strong analytical thinking, cultural sensitivity, and effective communication skills help you stand out in this role. These capabilities ensure fair and accurate processing of applications, enhance border security, and support efficient public service.

What are some common challenges immigration officers face when processing complex visa applications?

Immigration Officers often encounter complex visa applications that require thorough investigation and careful attention to detail. Challenges can include verifying the authenticity of supporting documents, interpreting evolving immigration laws and policies, and balancing efficiency with fairness in decision-making. Officers also regularly manage high caseloads and must coordinate with other government agencies to resolve discrepancies or conduct background checks. Strong organizational skills and ongoing training help officers navigate these complexities while maintaining accuracy and compliance.

What is the difference between Immigration Officer vs Customs Officer?

AspectImmigration OfficerCustoms Officer
Required credentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; sometimes additional certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; often similar certifications
Work environmentBorder crossings, airports, immigration officesPorts, border crossings, airports, customs facilities
Employer and industry usageGovernment immigration agenciesCustoms agencies, border security
Common search intentImmigration procedures, visa processing, border controlImport/export regulations, duty enforcement, border security

While both roles work at borders and involve security, Immigration Officers primarily handle visa processing and immigration status, whereas Customs Officers focus on regulating goods and enforcing import/export laws. Both roles require similar credentials and often work in overlapping environments, but their core responsibilities differ.

What is needed to become an immigration officer?

To become an immigration officer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, though some positions require a bachelor's degree in fields like criminal justice or public administration. Applicants must pass background checks, security clearances, and often complete specialized training or certification related to immigration laws and procedures. Strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to handle sensitive situations are essential skills for the role.

What qualifications do you need for an immigration officer?

To become an immigration officer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring a bachelor's degree in fields like criminal justice, law enforcement, or public administration. Relevant skills include strong communication, attention to detail, and knowledge of immigration laws and procedures; some roles may also require passing background checks and training programs. Certifications are not always mandatory but can enhance prospects in this field.

What job categories do people searching Immigration Officer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Immigration Officer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Immigration Officer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Immigration Officer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Immigration Officer jobs in VA?

For Immigration Officer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Immigration Officer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,615 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Law Enforcement Officer I

State of Virginia

Chesterfield, VA

$67K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


State Of Virginia rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 50 rated states


Job description

Law Enforcement Officer I

Apply now Job no: 5107328
Work type: Full-Time (Salaried)
Location: Chesterfield, Virginia
Categories: Public Safety

 "Greater Happens HERE"

Title: Law Enforcement Officer I

State Role Title: Law Enforcement Officer I

Hiring Range: up to a MAX of $67,000.00

Pay Band: 3

Agency: Virginia State University

Location: Virginia State University

Agency Website: www.VSU.edu

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

Virginia State University Law Enforcement Officers are charged with the protection of life and property and enforces the laws of the Commonwealth and regulations of the University within appropriate jurisdictional confines.

JOB DUTIES:

- Conducts campus patrols;
- Investigates complaints, suspicious activities, and crime/traffic accidents;
- Makes arrests and issues citations.
- Gives court testimony and initiates written reports.
- Safely operate police vehicles and communications equipment.
- Interact professionally with students, community agencies, and visitors, and other duties as assigned when needed.


Candidates must pass a comprehensive background investigation, including a psychological, medical, and drug screening.
An applicant selected for this position and is currently employed by a Virginia State agency must complete a minimum of one-year probationary period.

Minimum Qualifications

The candidate MUST possess a current Virginia Law Enforcement certification.
MUST have one year of experience as a sworn Law Enforcement Officer.
Must have the ability to handle firearms and operate a motor vehicle safely.
Must have a working knowledge of civil and criminal law, law enforcement and basic safety practices/procedures, and the judicial system.
Must have the ability to function mentally and physically under stress in emergencies.
Must have the knowledge necessary to apply and interpret laws, rules, or regulations; work independently and communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; prepare comprehensive reports; conduct investigations or other research; and resolve problems.
A valid driver's license is required.
Must never have been convicted of a felony or crime of moral turpitude.
A high school diploma or GED is required.
Must be a US citizen.

Additional Considerations

.

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or resume is submitted successfully. Please refer to "Your Application" in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

Virginia State University is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all persons and applicants, without regard to age, color, disability, gender, national origin, political affiliation, genetic information, race, religion, sexual orientation, sex (including pregnancy) or veteran status. VSU encourages and invites minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans to apply.
AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service alumni are encouraged to apply.
HOW TO APPLY: Virginia State University only accepts applications for this position through the on-line state Recruitment Management System (PageUp). Faxed, e-mailed, and mailed applications and/or attachments will not be accepted. The application must be detailed and fully completed. All employment and periods of unemployment (if applicable) must be listed within the application; either on an attached resume or manually listed in the "Relevant Work History" section. Each application is reviewed for documentation that shows the applicant meets the minimum and preferred qualifications stated in the job announcement. The decision to interview an applicant is based on the information provided on the application, therefore, it is essential to fully complete each section of the application and provide descriptive information. Submitting an incomplete state application, or a state application lacking in detail, may result in your non-selection. This website will provide a confirmation of receipt when the application is submitted for consideration.
Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis, until position are filled . Interested persons must attach a cover letter and a current resume/c.v to the online application. Official transcripts will be required at the time of employment.
The selected candidate will be subject to an extensive and complete background check, which may include fingerprinting. The candidate may be required to complete a Statement of Economic Interest as a condition of employment, if applicable.
Employment-based visa sponsorship at Virginia State University (VSU) is not guaranteed and will be evaluated carefully on a case-by-case basis. Federal law does not require employers to provide immigration sponsorship, and VSU is not obligated to offer it. Employment at VSU does not permit an individual to work in the United States unless the appropriate employment authorization has been obtained and verified in accordance with federal immigration compliance requirements.
Commonwealth's Alternative Hiring Process: In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their Certificate of Disability (COD) provided by a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor within the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS). Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS to get their Certificate of Disability. If you need to get a Certificate of Disability, use this link: https://www.vadars.org/drs/cpid/PWContact.aspx , or call DARS at 800-552-5019.

  • Optional Retirement Plan (ORP)
    Immediate vesting | Portable | Investment choice
  • Virginia Retirement System (VRS)
    Defined benefit pension | Lifetime monthly income
  • 457 Deferred Compensation Plan (DCP)
  • 403(b) (TIAA)
  • Comprehensive medical & dental plans
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Paid annual and sick leave
  • Paid state and federal holidays
  • Employer-paid life insurance
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility
  • Telework opportunities (where applicable)

Contact Information

Name: Dominique M. Fisher

Phone: 804-524-5075

Email: dfisher@vsu.edu

In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.

Advertised: 20 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:

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