over seas employment

[cockroach]

Im in school for criminal justice in the U.S. and was wondering if other countries would look at me for employment in law enforcement? If anyone might be able to help me with any info that would be great thanks.

[co911]

Which countries do you want to move to/work in?

[Sleuth]

Or, if you are a US Citizen but want to work overseas, look into the State Department Diplomatic Security Service.
I worked for a Federal Agency, but got to visit 11 countries on the job.

[jnhdrac]

There are a bunch of opportunities to work overseas in law enforcement. The federal government is a good choice. Whether you work for State, FBI, ATF, DEA, Secret Service (agent or uniform), or a variety of others, you will have a good chance to go overseas.

Even if you work in local policing, there are opportunities. Dyncorp is one organization that employs experienced cops overseas ( there are others). I know there have been opportunities in Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq and Timor, and I think there have been others.

As far as getting a job as a foreign police officer, I think it is a longshot. At the least, you will have to invest time and money in immigration. Also, most countries where you would have the chance, do not pay American salaries. That may not be bad if you plan to stay, but it can make it hard to come home again

[oscarmitre]

jnhdrac made some excellent points. Here in Australia I do know of at least a couple of Americans and a Canadian who are police officers but they moved here (usually after marriage) and intend to stay permanently. Two are here in my force in South Australia. Given our weak dollar you would on a comparative basis, be losing quite a bit of money. Also while our benefits are good (6 weeks annual leave, some forces have more, long service leave etc) the cost of living is comparatively high although things such as universal health care help.

Unless you intend to come here and reside permanently (and go through the immigration and citizenship process) I wouldn't advise it. But it's a great place for a holiday :D

[NSWCop]

G'Day:
In New South Wales you would have to be an Australian citizen or have been granted permanent resident status or be a citizen of a Commonwealth country, to apply to the NSW Police College.

You would then have to complete the Constable Development Program (or whatever it is called now) and then be offered employment by the NSW Police.

Your American qualification may not be recognised by the NSW Board of Studies, but you may receive study credits.

I would probably stay where you are. With the plethora of LEO Departments in the USA, you are sure to find something to suit you. If overseas postings are what you are after, try you federal system.

Good Luck!

[Sgt Lobster]

In the UK we now has a pretty relaxed policy: in addition to British, Irish, EU & Commonwealth citizens, other foreign nationals can join a UK police force provided they have been granted indefinate leave to stay.



Lobster.

[jnhdrac]

I happened to look at www.civpol.org today. It gives some interesting information, particularly about Iraq and Kosovo. Take everything with a grain of salt, but it is certainly worth looking at if you are considering those possibilities.