Overview:
Customs officers work towards ensuring any imports or exports are within national laws and regulations. The government appoints these officers through a process of examinations and testing. They scrutinize all items moving in and out of the country and identify any illegal goods or unlawful practices. They are responsible for preventing the importation of illegal goods such as drugs, tobacco, and alcohol. To prevent smuggling in India, they must have a hawkeye. They are stationed at international airports or ports to oversee the import and export of goods. Customs officers have the right to arrest individuals on the spot in case of any suspicious activity. They work in teams and work towards preventing smuggling in India.
Career Path:
| Stream of Study at 12th: |
Students who wish to become custom officers can opt for any stream at the 12th level. |
| Degree/Graduation Courses: |
- Pursue an undergraduate course in any stream
|
Eligibility Criteria:
- Should be a citizen of India
- Should be between the age of 21 and 28 (exceptions applicable based on caste)
- Should meet the physical requirements
- Should have completed graduation with at least 55% marks in any stream from any recognized university
- Should have qualified all rounds of Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination and opted for the Indian Revenue Service
(Or)
Should have qualified all rounds of the Staff Selection Commission-Combined Graduate Level Exam (SSC-CGL) and opted to become Inspector of Customs and Central Excise/Preventive Officer/Indian Regulations Examiner
There are four different paths you can take to become a Customs Officer:
- 1. Group A Level: Successful completion of the UPSC examination is required. You must choose the Indian Revenue Service, which includes customs and central excise. You will be assigned to either the central excise or customs departments as an Assistant Commissioner. Throughout your career, you will be required to work in both departments.
- 2. Group B Level: There are three different postings at this level:
(i) Inspector of Customs and Central Excise: You can clear SSC-CGL and choose the inspector of Customs and Central excise. You will be assigned to one of the departments as an inspector. Throughout your career, you will be required to work in both departments.
(ii) Preventive Officer: Pass your SSC CGL exam and choose a position as a preventive officer. This position is only for the customs department, and you will be assigned to coastal areas (for seas and airports).
(iii) Indian Customs Examiner: Choose the examiner after passing your SSC CGL. You will be in charge of seaports and air cargo, and your post will be limited to customs only.
