The purpose of the article is to analyze the concept and essence of international cooperation in operational-search activities, the definition of these provisions in the legislation of different countries. Research results. The following main forms of cooperation between states in operational-search activities have been identified: exchange of operational-search, legal and other information; joint efforts of states, in particular those outlined in mutually agreed agreements, aimed at preventing criminal activity, identifying its cases and further conducting investigations; search and detention of criminals on the basis of contractual relations or one-time appeals of one state to another; transfer of persons accused of committing crimes to another jurisdiction, whether it is a state within the same country or an international organization, for the purpose of trial; main areas of international cooperation in the administration of justice: assistance in the resettlement of convicted persons to their country of origin or country of permanent residence to serve their sentence in prison. Conclusions. International cooperation in operational and investigative activities must be carried out in compliance with state sovereignty, national legislation, adherence to the principle of non-intervention in the domestic affairs of nations, along with other core tenets of international law, forms the foundation of this discussion. The reach, principal approaches, and structures through which states collaborate internationally to combat crime are contingent upon the specifics and intrinsic traits of each severe criminal act, which manifests as a unique societal issue.