Post-recruitment training and development

On this page

• Distance learning facilitated training
• In-residence training
• On-the-job development
• Personal decision: Postings

Distance learning facilitated training

The distance learning facilitated training phase is the first phase of the OITP administered via the internet. You will need consistent access to a computer with a reliable internet connection.

This learning phase is 3 weeks (an average of 5 hours a day). It is made up of a mix of self-learning and instructor-led video sessions using quizzes, activities, collaborative discussions, forum postings and various assignments.

You will learn about:

• the agency, its mandate, mission and vision
• programs and services offered by the CBSA
• CBSA's work culture
  • including values and ethics as well as diversity and race relations in the workplace
• primary inspection processes
  • immigration
  • food, plant and animals
  • customs
  • commercial operations
  • other government departments

In-residence training

The second phase of the OITP is the in-residence training at Canada Border Services College in Rigaud, Quebec. In-residence training is 15 weeks, from Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4 pm, with some training on evenings, weekends and statutory holidays, as required.

You will learn the following:

• primary inspection process
• secondary inspection process
  • immigration
  • food, plant, animals
  • commercial operations
  • customs
• policies, procedures, and legislation that the agency administers and their application
• seizure, detention, personal search and arrest
• how to determine the admissibility of persons and goods
• defensive tactics
• duty firearms

Allowance

During the training, you receive a weekly allowance of $525. While attending in-residence training you will also be provided with your accommodations and meals. The CBSA will cover the cost of one round trip from your home residence to the Canada Border Services College.

If you are currently a public servant and are invited to attend training at our college, refer to your collective agreement and talk to your manager about the appropriate leave option.

On-the-job development

After successful completion of the OITP in-residence training, you will begin the Officer Induction Development (OID) Program, a 12 to 18 month on-the-job development phase, as a CBSA officer trainee (developmental) (FB-02). You will complete the program at your port of entry, which is determined through the Duty Placement Process.

This performance and competency-based program provides a clear developmental path which involves performing on-the-job functions, competency development, learning, coaching and constructive feedback. Upon successful completion of the OID Program you will be appointed as a border services officer (FB-03).

Personal decision: postings

Postings can be located anywhere across Canada. Remember the personal decision you made when you first applied to become a CBSA officer trainee (developmental).