Police Departments Across the U.S. That Do Not Require Citizenship

In the United States, many police departments require applicants to be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. However, some departments allow non-citizens, particularly those with work visas, to apply. The policies can vary widely by state and department.

Common Requirements Across Different Departments

Here are a few examples of police departments that do not strictly require citizenship for their applicants:

New York City Police Department (NYPD): The NYPD allows legal permanent residents to apply for the police officer exam provided they can obtain citizenship before they are appointed. Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD): Similar to NYPD, LAPD allows legal permanent residents to apply but they must obtain citizenship before being hired. Chicago Police Department: Chicago allows non-citizens to apply but they must be able to prove they are in the process of obtaining citizenship.

Other smaller departments in various states may have more flexible requirements, as long as candidates meet the other necessary qualifications. It is essential to check the specific policies of each department to ensure accuracy and compliance with their requirements.

Flexible Recruitment Practices in Indiana

For those interested in police departments in Indiana, it is possible to find a few that do not require citizenship. One such department is located in a city of about 85,000. This city is home to a major university with just under 50,000 students enrolled in a brief semester. The presence of the university and the ties many elected officials have to the university mean that the city often leads in progressive initiatives. However, it is important to note that this is not the norm across Indiana and many other agencies in the state.

Legal Framework for Non-Citizens in Policing

As a cop, I can inform you that there are indeed a few states that allow permanent residents who have substantial progress toward naturalization to apply for police positions. Most require citizenship to have been granted before swearing in. For example, some Hawaii counties and Honolulu allow permanent residents to be cops. The Chicago Police Department explicitly states that permanent residence in the United States is a requirement, although citizenship is not mandatory.

As a civilian, many departments also hire permanent residents and those on proper visas. I know of at least one example of a computer expert who was not a U.S. citizen and whose department sponsored his visa application. This reflects a growing trend towards embracing diverse talent in the law enforcement community.

For those who believe you must be a citizen to join a police department, it's important to note that the Chicago Police Recruitment page states that permanent residence is the requirement, not citizenship. This is also typical of other major departments.

Conclusion

While many police departments require citizenship or permanent residency, there are exceptions across the U.S. It is crucial for potential applicants to check the specific requirements of the police department they are interested in. Policies can change and vary based on local laws and regulations. Departments that embrace diverse talent can bring valuable skills and perspectives to the force, ultimately enhancing community safety and trust.