How Do You Join the Canadian Police Force if You Are a Police Officer in Another Country?

Canadian law enforcement is well respected around the world.

Police forces in Canada have different requirements for job applicants. Only Canadian citizens can apply to become a Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the federal police force. For other law enforcement departments, you have to be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident. Becoming a police officer in Canada is often highly competitive and various steps need to be completed before you are hired. Most major forces have a recruiter who can help you with your immigration status.

Instructions

1. Apply to be a Canadian permanent resident. Canada offers several options for people who want to immigrate to Canada. If you are already a police officer, you will likely want to apply for a Canadian permanent resident under the Skilled Workers program if law enforcement is listed. The occupations that can apply for this status change regularly so check Canada's immigration website often.

2. Secure employment as a security guard or other law enforcement position in Canada. If law enforcement is not listed as an eligible occupation, you will need to have a job offer before you can apply to become a permanent resident under the Skilled Worker program.

3. Review qualifications. In addition to being a permanent resident, you must be over the age of 18 and have no criminal history. College education is not usually required but can help your application stand out.

4. Complete a First Aid and CPR course once you have obtained your permanent resident status in Canada. All police officer applicants are required to have this basic training before applying to become law enforcement. These courses can be taken at fire departments or the police station where you are submitting your application. Be sure to keep a copy of your certification for your records.

5. Visit the police station where you would like to work and ask for an application package. Complete all forms and return to the recruiter. If your application is approved, you will then be called in for an interview.

6. Take all necessary tests. If you pass the interview, you will have to take an assortment of tests that will assess your psychological functioning, logical reasoning, writing and reading skills, and your ability to solve simple math problems. You will also have to take strength and agility tests.

7. Enroll in training. If you pass the tests, you will enter a four-month training program. This training program will teach you aspects of criminal law and continue to train you physically. If you pass the training program, you will become a Canadian police officer.

References

• Royal Canadian Mounted Police: Basic Requirements
• Canada Questions and Answers: How to Become a Police Officer in Canada
• Toronto Police Services: Frequently Asked Questions
• Citizenship and Immigration Canada: Skilled Workers and Professionals