The Department of Homeland Security has received over 100,000 applications from Americans who want to become Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents.
The government recently removed the age limits for applicants and is offering incentives, including a maximum of $50,000 signing bonus.
“Our country is calling you to serve at ICE. In the wake of the Biden administration’s failed immigration policies, your country needs dedicated men and women of ICE to get the worst of the worst criminals out of our country,” said DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, a 2025 Wash100 Award winner. “This is a defining moment in our nation’s history. Your skills, your experience, and your courage have never been more essential. Together, we must defend the homeland.”
Leaders and experts from across government and industry will discuss the latest U.S. homeland security programs and initiatives at the Potomac Officers Club’s 2025 Homeland Security Summit on Nov. 12. Register for the in-person event here.
ICE Recruiting New Agents
The administration of President Donald Trump launched an effort at the end of July to recruit 10,000 additional ICE agents. Aside from a signing bonus, the government is also offering successful applicants student loan repayment and forgiveness options, enhanced retirement benefits and 25 percent Law Enforcement Availability Pay, or LEAP, for homeland security investigations special agents.
All ICE law enforcement recruits will be required to undergo medical and drug screening and pass a physical fitness test.
The agency’s recruitment effort is funded by Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill, which the president signed into law in July.
“Thanks to the One Big Beautiful Bill, we now have funding to recruit and hire Americans who want to patriotically serve their country and protect American communities,” commented Todd Lyons, acting director of ICE.
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