Tullitarkastaja

Tullitarkastaja is a Finnish term for a customs inspector, a public official employed by the Finnish Customs (Tulli). The role is to enforce customs legislation and related regulations at border controls and points of entry, monitor the flow of goods and people, and help prevent smuggling and other illicit activities. Their work supports both customs revenue collection and the security of the internal market.

The main duties of tullitarkastaja include inspecting goods and passengers, reviewing documentation such as declarations and permits, and verifying the classification, value, origin, and taxable basis of goods. They assess duties, value-added tax, and excise duties where applicable, determine whether imports or exports comply with restrictions, and issue clearance decisions, permits, or certificates when required. In cases of suspected non-compliance, they may seize goods, report violations, and collaborate with other authorities on investigations or enforcement actions.

Work settings typically involve border crossings, airports, seaports, and inland customs offices. Tullitarkastajat use risk-based analysis and IT systems to target controls, perform physical inspections, and coordinate risk mitigation measures with other agencies such as police or immigration authorities. They may also participate in audits, investigations, and post-clearance control activities to ensure ongoing compliance.

Qualifications and training usually require higher education in fields such as law, economics, or international trade, followed by specialized training provided by the Finnish Customs. Candidates must meet security and suitability requirements and usually possess proficiency in Finnish and other common languages (for example Swedish and English). The position is a civil service role, and duties are defined by Finnish and EU customs legislation.