UK Border Force Salary & Rank Structure 2025 — Pay Scale for Officers

Are you searching for the updated UK Border Force salary and rank structure for 2025? You are not alone. Many people across the United Kingdom who are planning a career in the Border Force, or are simply curious about public service pay, want to know how much Border Force officers earn and how the ranks work.

The Border Force is a vital part of the UK Home Office. It protects the country’s borders by managing immigration and customs checks at ports and airports, stopping illegal goods, and ensuring security. Officers have a challenging but rewarding role, and the pay scale reflects their responsibilities and experience.

This detailed guide explains everything you need to know about the UK Border Force salary and rank structure in 2025, including starting salaries, allowances, benefits, and progression opportunities. Whether you are applying for your first role, considering promotion, or researching civil service careers, this article gives you all the answers you need.

Why You Should Understand the UK Border Force Salary and Rank Structure

If you want to work with the UK Border Force, understanding the pay and rank structure is very important because:

• It helps you set realistic expectations about earnings.

• It allows you to plan your career path through the ranks.

• It helps you compare Border Force roles to other public sector or private jobs.

• It shows which positions offer better pay and allowances.

• It prepares you for salary negotiations when offered a role or promotion.

Border Force salaries are based on the UK Civil Service pay scales but also include location-based allowances and benefits.

How Much Do UK Border Force Officers Earn in 2025?

In 2025, UK Border Force officers’ salaries range from about £23,000 per year for entry-level assistant officers to over £60,000 per year for senior managers. Pay depends on your rank, experience, location, and responsibilities.

Border Force officers working in London and the South East receive additional allowances due to the higher cost of living.

UK Border Force Ranks and Roles in 2025

The UK Border Force has a clear rank and pay structure, similar to the wider UK civil service. Each rank has defined responsibilities and pay bands. Officers also benefit from overtime pay, shift allowances, and other bonuses depending on their role and location.

Below are the main ranks and roles explained in detail.

UK Border Force Salary by Rank in 2025

Border Force Assistant Officer (AO)

• Salary: £23,000 – £26,500 per year

• Role: Entry-level administrative and support work.

• Duties: Document checks, basic security tasks, and assisting officers.

Border Force Officer (EO)

• Salary: £27,000 – £32,000 per year

• Role: Main operational role, directly involved in front-line border protection.

• Duties: Checking passports and visas, inspecting goods, interviewing passengers, and enforcing laws.

Higher Officer (HEO)

• Salary: £35,000 – £42,000 per year

• Role: Supervisory role, managing a team of officers and operations in a specific area.

• Duties: Planning operations, training staff, and ensuring compliance with procedures.

Chief Immigration Officer / Senior Officer (SEO)

• Salary: £43,000 – £50,000 per year

• Role: Senior management position overseeing multiple teams and larger operations.

• Duties: Making high-level decisions, managing resources, and liaising with senior government officials.

Grade 7 (G7)

• Salary: £55,000 – £65,000 per year

• Role: Strategic leadership and policy-making role within the Border Force.

• Duties: Managing departments, setting priorities, and leading national projects.

Grade 6 (G6)

• Salary: £65,000 – £80,000 per year

• Role: Senior management, responsible for major sections of the Border Force at a regional or national level.

• Duties: High-level strategic planning, managing large budgets, and coordinating with other agencies.

Summary Table: UK Border Force Salary and Rank Structure in 2025

Benefits and Allowances for UK Border Force Employees

In addition to the base salary, Border Force staff enjoy several benefits and allowances, including:

• Pension Scheme: Generous public service pension.

• Annual Leave: Starting at 25 days plus public holidays, increasing with service.

• Shift Allowances: For working nights, weekends, or irregular hours.

• London Weighting: Additional pay for staff working in London and the South East.

• Training and Development: Funded courses and career support.

• Childcare and Family Support: Schemes to assist families.

• Overtime Pay: For working beyond contracted hours.

Factors That Influence UK Border Force Salaries

Several factors determine how much you earn in the Border Force:

• Rank: Higher ranks mean higher pay.

• Experience: More years of service often bring incremental pay increases.

• Location: Staff in London and high-cost areas earn more.

• Shift Work: Overtime and irregular hours add to base pay.

• Performance: Strong performance may lead to bonuses or accelerated promotions.

Career Progression in the UK Border Force

One of the advantages of joining the Border Force is the opportunity to progress through the ranks. Many staff start as officers and work their way up to management roles. Career progression is supported by training, development programmes, and clear promotion pathways.

To advance your career, you can:

• Gain more experience in your current role.

• Take on additional responsibilities.

• Complete professional development courses.

• Apply for internal promotions.

• Transfer to specialist or leadership positions.

Frequently Asked Questions About UK Border Force Salary & Rank Structure in 2025

What is the starting salary for a Border Force officer?

The starting salary for a Border Force officer (EO rank) is about £27,000 per year, rising with experience and allowances.

Do Border Force officers in London earn more?

Yes. Officers in London and the South East receive additional London Weighting and location allowances.

What is the highest-paid rank in the UK Border Force?

Grade 6 and Senior Civil Service roles are the highest-paid, with salaries reaching over £80,000 per year.

Is overtime available in the Border Force?

Yes. Many officers have the opportunity to earn overtime pay, especially during busy periods or on irregular shifts.

Can you progress from Assistant Officer to higher ranks?

Yes. Many employees start at the AO level and work their way up through the ranks by gaining experience and applying for promotions.

How to Increase Your Salary in the UK Border Force

If you want to earn more in the Border Force, here are some effective strategies:

• Aim for promotions to higher ranks.

• Volunteer for overtime and shift work where possible.

• Move to a London-based or high-allowance location.

• Complete training and take on specialised or leadership roles.

• Consistently perform well and exceed targets.

Advantages of Working for the UK Border Force

Here are some reasons why many people choose a career in the UK Border Force:

• Stable and competitive pay with regular reviews.

• Generous pension and benefits package.

• Job security and public service satisfaction.

• Opportunities to make a difference by protecting the country.

• Career advancement pathways and professional development.

• Flexible working arrangements in some roles.

Final Thoughts: UK Border Force Salary & Rank Structure 2025 — Pay Scale for Officers

The UK Border Force salary and rank structure in 2025 shows that the Border Force offers rewarding careers with competitive salaries, clear progression opportunities, and valuable benefits. Starting salaries for officers are around £27,000, while senior managers can earn over £80,000.

With structured ranks, generous allowances, and chances for promotion, the Border Force remains an attractive choice for those looking for a meaningful and stable career in public service.

Whether you are just starting your career, considering a move into border protection, or planning your next promotion, understanding the pay and rank structure is key to making informed decisions about your future.