Pathways to Becoming an ICE Agent: A Comprehensive Guide

I. Introduction: Understanding the Role of an ICE Agent
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operates as a critical component within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), tasked with safeguarding national security and public safety. This overarching mission is executed by proactively identifying and neutralizing criminal activities, addressing vulnerabilities along the nation’s borders, and upholding the integrity of economic, transportation, and infrastructure security systems. At its core, ICE’s responsibilities broadly encompass the enforcement of immigration laws and the investigation of illicit movements of people and goods.
While the term “ICE Agent” is commonly used, it is important to recognize that the agency comprises two distinct operational divisions, each with specific mandates, roles, and career trajectories. This organizational structure reflects a highly specialized and bifurcated approach to federal law enforcement within the agency. The two primary divisions are Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO).
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) stands as the largest investigative arm of the Department of Homeland Security, maintaining a substantial global presence with 26 principal field offices across the United States and 67 foreign offices in 47 countries. HSI Special Agents, also referred to as criminal investigators, are responsible for conducting intricate and high-stakes investigations across a broad spectrum of illicit activities. Their investigative scope includes, but is not limited to, national security threats, terrorism, public safety crimes, drug smuggling, human trafficking, child exploitation, illegal arms export, financial crimes, commercial trade fraud, money laundering, counter-proliferation investigations, and cybercrime. The methodology employed by HSI Special Agents combines intelligence gathering, innovative investigative techniques, and the application of various legal authorities, often involving complex undercover operations.

Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Deportation Officer
In contrast, Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) primarily focuses on upholding U.S. immigration laws, with a significant portion of its work concentrated within the country’s interior rather than solely at the border. ERO Deportation Officers (DOs) are dedicated to identifying, apprehending, and removing noncitizens who pose a threat to communities, national security, or who otherwise undermine the integrity of the nation’s immigration system. Their duties are comprehensive, ranging from assisting with the apprehension of individuals violating immigration laws and preparing detailed investigative reports, to performing essential law enforcement support tasks such as fingerprinting and photographing. They conduct interviews, manage case files, coordinate with foreign consulates for travel documents, transport noncitizens between detention facilities, and initiate both criminal and civil prosecutions and deportations. ERO emphasizes that its operations are meticulously targeted, based on thorough research and surveillance of known criminal noncitizens, rather than indiscriminate actions often mischaracterized in public discourse. This distinction is crucial for understanding the operational reality of the agency and for aspiring agents to align with its stated mission, particularly in navigating public perceptions.
Demanding Nature and Support Systems
Both HSI Special Agent and ERO Deportation Officer roles are inherently demanding, requiring substantial physical strength, stamina, and mental resilience. Agents frequently operate in potentially dangerous and high-stress environments, which may involve extended periods of surveillance, the physical restraint of suspects, and the transportation of heavy equipment. A fundamental aspect of both positions is the mandatory requirement to carry and regularly qualify with firearms. HSI Criminal Investigators are authorized to employ deadly force when deemed necessary, in strict adherence to legal statutes and agency policy. While the high-pressure nature of these roles can contribute to stress and potential burnout, ICE proactively provides support mechanisms, including the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and peer counseling programs, to assist its personnel. These careers offer significant responsibility and a direct opportunity to contribute to national security and public safety.

II. General Eligibility Requirements
The path to becoming an ICE agent, whether an HSI Special Agent or an ERO Deportation Officer, involves meeting a stringent set of eligibility criteria designed to ensure candidates possess the necessary qualifications, physical capabilities, and personal integrity for these demanding federal law enforcement roles.
Citizenship and Age Restrictions
All applicants for an ICE agent position must be U.S. citizens. Age requirements vary slightly between the two divisions. For HSI Special Agents, applicants must be at least 21 years old by the closing date of the job announcement and generally must be referred for selection consideration before their 37th birthday. ERO Deportation Officers, conversely, must be able to enter on duty prior to the day immediately preceding their 40th birthday. These age limits are not arbitrary; they reflect the physically demanding nature of these roles, which require moderate to arduous physical exertion, use of firearms, and work in various conditions. The policy aims to ensure agents possess the physical capabilities required for high-stress and dangerous situations, and to maximize their career longevity within a physically demanding “special provisions” retirement system. Exceptions to these age limits may apply for qualified preference-eligible veterans or individuals with prior federal civilian law enforcement service. Additionally, male applicants born after December 31, 1959, are required to certify their registration with the Selective Service System.
Educational Background and Desired Disciplines
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university is a fundamental prerequisite for most HSI Special Agent positions. While a degree in any field may be accepted, certain academic disciplines are preferred due to their direct relevance to the investigative work, including criminal justice, homeland security, finance, accounting, foreign languages (with fluency), and computer science. Prior experience in law enforcement or military service is highly valued and can significantly enhance an application.
For ERO Deportation Officers, entry at the GL-5 level typically requires the successful completion of a full four-year course of study leading to a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. To qualify at the GL-7 level, a bachelor’s degree meeting Superior Academic Achievement (SAA) provisions can be sufficient. SAA is demonstrated by ranking in the upper one-third of the graduating class, achieving a GPA of 3.0 or higher (out of 4.0) for all undergraduate work or the final two years, or by election to a national scholastic honor society recognized by the Association of College Honor Societies. All educational qualifications must be from an accredited institution and demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities pertinent to the Deportation Officer role.

Experience Requirements
Entry-level HSI Special Agent positions are commonly offered at the GL-7 and GL-9 levels. Qualification at the GL-7 level generally requires either one full year of graduate-level education or one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-5 level in the Federal government. For the GL-9 level, candidates typically need a master’s degree (or an equivalent graduate degree), at least two years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to an LLB or JD degree, or one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-7 level. The emphasis on “specialized experience” for these higher entry-level grades indicates that ICE values practical, relevant experience in law enforcement or investigative principles. This suggests a preference for candidates who possess foundational skills pertinent to the role, enabling them to integrate more quickly into operational duties. Aspiring agents may therefore benefit from seeking internships, volunteer work, or entry-level roles that provide exposure to investigative or law enforcement support functions to bolster their competitiveness.
For ERO Deportation Officers, GL-5 qualification necessitates three years of progressively responsible experience, with at least one year equivalent to the GS-4 level in the Federal government. This experience must demonstrate the capacity to analyze problems, gather pertinent data, identify solutions, plan and organize work, communicate effectively both orally and in writing, and interact effectively with individuals in person-to-person situations. General clerical work is typically not creditable. To qualify at the GL-7 level, one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-5 level is required, involving basic trainee-level duties such as conducting interviews, drafting basic reports for case records, securing signed statements, affidavits, and documentary evidence, and searching databases for information. This also includes foundational training in criminal or civil investigative principles and techniques, applying laws and rules related to criminal and civil procedures, searches, seizures, arrests, and rules of evidence, and preparing investigative reports. For the GL-9 level, one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-7 level is needed, which involves observing and participating in various phases of investigations, researching and analyzing records, interviewing individuals (both cooperative and non-cooperative), and obtaining signed statements and documentary evidence.
For both HSI and ERO, a combination of successfully completed post-high school education and qualifying experience can be utilized to meet eligibility requirements. Volunteer experience, including participation in National Service programs, is also considered creditable.
Driver’s License and Residency Requirements
A valid state automobile driver’s license is a mandatory requirement for both HSI Special Agents and ERO Deportation Officers at the time of appointment. For HSI Special Agents, a residency requirement stipulates living within 50 miles of the assigned duty station. ERO duty stations are assigned based on the operational needs of the agency, and declining an offered duty location will result in removal from further consideration in the hiring process.

III. The Application Process: Your First Steps
The initial phase of becoming an ICE agent involves a structured application process, primarily managed through federal government portals, which demands meticulous attention to detail and proactive engagement from applicants.
Navigating USAJOBS.gov
The primary and exclusive portal for discovering and applying to ICE agent positions is USAJOBS.gov. Prospective applicants are strongly advised to create a comprehensive profile and effectively utilize the search filters, specifically targeting positions listed as “open to the public (all sources)”. It is essential for applicants to carefully navigate USAJOBS, as the platform lists a broad spectrum of ICE positions, including administrative and health service roles, which are distinct from agent positions. This digital gatekeeping and applicant self-service model means that proficiency in navigating online government portals and meticulous attention to detail in application submission are effectively early assessments of an applicant’s organizational skills and ability to follow instructions, which are critical attributes for federal law enforcement roles.
Submitting the Occupational Questionnaire and Required Documents
A mandatory component for both HSI Special Agent and ERO Deportation Officer applications is the completion of an Occupational Questionnaire. This questionnaire assesses an applicant’s experience, education, and training, generating an initial score that contributes to the overall evaluation.
A comprehensive resume, detailing relevant experience, education, and training, is a required submission. For both HSI and ERO, resumes are strictly limited to five pages, and only the first five pages will be reviewed. The resume should include specific details such as job titles, duties performed, employer information (name, telephone number, address), precise starting and ending dates (month/year), hours worked per week, and an indication of whether the current supervisor can be contacted.
If an applicant is qualifying based on education, such as a bachelor’s degree or Superior Academic Achievement, a copy of an unofficial college transcript or a detailed list of coursework with hours completed is necessary; a diploma alone is not an acceptable substitute. For any foreign education, documentation must be provided to demonstrate its comparability to U.S. accredited institutions.
Depending on the applicant’s specific background, additional supporting documents may be required. These can include SF-50s for current or former federal employees, agency notices for Interagency Career Transition Plan (ICTAP) claims, or specific statements for political appointees. Proof of eligibility for any age waivers, such as veteran status, must also be submitted if applicable. All applications and supporting documentation must be submitted exclusively online through USAJOBS.gov; mail or email submissions are not accepted. It is the sole responsibility of the applicant to ensure that all information entered or uploaded is received accurately and by the specified deadline. Applicants must also proactively monitor their USAJOBS profile and email (including spam or junk mail folders) for all communications regarding their application status.
Timeline Expectations for the Hiring Process
The entire multi-phase hiring process to become an ICE agent can be protracted, typically spanning several months to over a year. While some applicants may complete the process in as little as five months, longer timelines are common. Delays frequently arise from incomplete security forms or a failure to disclose potentially derogatory information upfront. The strategic importance of full disclosure in the background investigation cannot be overstated. Applicants are explicitly advised that if they are aware of any derogatory information about themselves, such as financial delinquencies or an arrest record, it is imperative to disclose this information on the security forms. The agency even provides examples, such as clarifying Chapter 13 Bankruptcy proceedings with supporting documentation. This highlights that transparency and honesty are paramount, even when presenting potentially negative information. The causal relationship is clear: failure to disclose can lead to significant delays or outright removal from the hiring process. This indicates that the background investigation is not merely a search for disqualifying information, but also a critical assessment of an applicant’s integrity and trustworthiness, which are non-negotiable traits for federal law enforcement. Prompt scheduling of electronic fingerprinting and the accurate completion of all required security forms are crucial factors for facilitating a more efficient timeline. An initial tentative job offer is issued, but a final job offer is strictly contingent upon the successful clearance of all pre-employment requirements.

https://www.ice.gov/careers/how-apply/physical-fitness-test
IV. Testing and Assessment Phases
The selection process for ICE agents involves a series of rigorous tests and assessments designed to evaluate a candidate’s suitability, physical capabilities, and mental aptitude for the demanding roles. These phases are critical gateways to employment.
Physical Fitness Tests (PFT)
Physical fitness is a non-negotiable requirement for both HSI Special Agents and ERO Deportation Officers. All applicants must pass a mandatory pre-employment Physical Fitness Test (PFT). For HSI Special Agents, this PFT consists of four individually-timed events: a minimum of 32 sit-ups in one minute, a 220-yard sprint in 47.73 seconds or less, a minimum of 22 push-ups in one minute, and a 1.5-mile run in 14 minutes and 25 seconds or less. HSI trainees are required to pass the PFT again during their basic training program at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) to graduate. Test administrators typically count repetitions aloud and provide lap times during the run to guide candidates.
For ERO Deportation Officers, the PFT is a mandatory pre-employment screening for those attending the Basic Immigration Enforcement Training Program (BIETP) and Deportation Officer Transition Program (DOTP). This PFT comprises two parts: a Criterion Task Test (CTT) and a 1.5-mile run. The CTT is a timed obstacle course that includes a vehicle exit, barrier surmount, low crawl, window egress, stair climb, repeat crawl, pre-cuffing position, a 175 lbs. dummy drag, a repeat barrier surmount, and a sprint. Following the CTT, applicants must complete a 1.5-mile run in 14 minutes and 30 seconds or less. All ERO applicants must pass the Physical Abilities Assessment (PAA) prior to graduation from FLETC.
Background Investigations and Security Clearances
A comprehensive background investigation is a mandatory requirement for all selected applicants for both HSI and ERO positions. This investigation is crucial for obtaining and maintaining the necessary Secret or Top Secret security clearance, which is a condition of employment. The background check may include a credit check, a review of financial issues (such as debts, child support obligations, and tax compliance), and an examination of any criminal offenses or illegal drug use. The process assesses a candidate’s stability, trustworthiness, reliability, discretion, character, honesty, judgment, and loyalty to the United States. During this investigation, previous and current employment, educational history, and residences are verified.
Drug Testing and Medical Examinations
All applicants must successfully pass a pre-employment drug test. Once employed, ICE personnel are subject to random drug testing throughout their careers in compliance with the agency’s Drug-Free Workplace Program.
A pre-employment medical examination is also mandatory for all candidates, ensuring they meet the medical standards for the position. This comprehensive review of medical history, including current conditions and treatments, determines an applicant’s ability to safely and efficiently perform the full range of essential duties under potentially harsh environmental conditions. Medical standards address conditions that could interfere with safe and reliable job performance, or cause sudden or subtle incapacitation. Applicants are required to provide complete and accurate medical information, including any VA or DOL disability ratings and relevant medical records, as failure to disclose can lead to disqualification. For mental health conditions within the past five years, or those with a current disability rating, mental health treatment records are required.
Polygraph Examinations
Polygraph testing is designated as a pre-employment requirement for both HSI Special Agents and ERO Deportation Officers. If referred for a polygraph, applicants are typically required to travel at their own expense to complete the examination. For HSI, an unsuccessful polygraph examination administered by ICE within the last 365 days will result in removal from the hiring process. For ERO, unsuccessful ICE-administered polygraph examinations within the last two years will lead to elimination. The polygraph examination typically takes four to five hours and includes pre-employment screening questions regarding suitability for employment and national security issues. All questions are reviewed and explained beforehand, and applicants have the opportunity to discuss any concerns. The process is audio and video recorded, and examiners emphasize that nervousness is normal and will not cause a failure; rather, the examination assesses honesty and integrity.
Written Assessments and Interviews
For HSI Special Agent candidates, the testing process includes multi-phase written assessments. Phase I consists of two non-proctored online tests: the Automated Writing Assessment (AWA) and the Situational Judgment Test (SJT). The AWA requires applicants to compose a short essay (at least 150 words) in 25 minutes, evaluated on presentation, grammar, and completeness. The SJT presents 14 realistic, job-related scenarios, requiring applicants to rate the effectiveness of potential courses of action within 75 minutes.

ICE removes 37 Cambodian nationals
Applicants who pass Phase I advance to Phase II, which involves three proctored tests taken at an ICE-designated testing center: the Writing Skills Test (WST), Logical Reasoning Assessment (LRA), and Candidate Experience Record (CER). The WST assesses understanding of written English rules (e.g., sentence construction, word usage) in 60 minutes. The LRA evaluates critical thinking and the ability to interpret information and apply it to factual situations, with 40 questions to be answered in 90 minutes. The CER asks about past work attendance, educational preferences, and perceived skill levels. The entire proctored assessment process takes approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours.
Following successful completion of these assessments, HSI candidates are scheduled for a structured pass/fail interview, typically conducted by two senior-level HSI officials, which assesses background and employment history. For ERO Deportation Officers, a pre-employment exam is generally not required , but the occupational questionnaire serves as an initial assessment of qualifications.

V. Training and Development
Upon successful completion of the rigorous selection process, accepted candidates embark on comprehensive training programs designed to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge for their respective roles within ICE. These training programs are intensive and mandatory for continued employment.
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent Training
Newly hired HSI Special Agents are required to successfully complete a basic training program as a condition of their employment. This program, totaling approximately 22 to 27 weeks, is conducted at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) in Glynco, Georgia. The core basic training program consists of two main components:
* FLETC Criminal Investigator Training Program (CITP): This foundational component provides approximately 12 weeks of intensive training in the techniques, concepts, and methodologies of conducting criminal investigations. The curriculum is comprehensive, combining engaging classroom lectures, practical exercises, firearms training, physical fitness, and defensive tactics. Key subject areas include behavioral science (e.g., cross-cultural communications, interviewing techniques), counterterrorism (e.g., IEDs, WMDs), cyber investigations (e.g., mobile device investigations, electronic surveillance), driver training (e.g., emergency vehicle operations), enforcement operations (e.g., use of force, officer safety), firearms proficiency, investigative operations (e.g., case management, surveillance, undercover operations, report writing), legal aspects (e.g., constitutional law, courtroom testimony), and physical techniques (e.g., control tactics, lifestyle management). Trainees participate in a “Continuing Case Investigation” where they develop a case, execute warrants, and practice courtroom testimony. Successful completion of CITP is mandatory.
* HSI Special Agent Training Program (HSISAT): Upon graduation from CITP, HSI Special Agent trainees undergo further agency-specific training during the HSISAT program at the HSI Academy, also located at FLETC. This program spans approximately 13 to 15 weeks and is taught by experienced HSI Special Agents who are subject matter experts in various investigative areas. HSISAT provides instruction on the day-to-day responsibilities and expectations of HSI Special Agents in the field, including case development and management, prosecutorial preparation, and operational tradecraft. Training includes extensive instruction on customs, immigration, and other statutory legal authorities, as well as approximately 16 programmatic areas such as transnational gangs, cybercrime, financial investigations, child exploitation, weapons trafficking, and strategic technology proliferation. HSISAT also prepares new agents for the physically demanding aspects of the job through weekly physical conditioning sessions, tactical techniques, and firearms training. A mentor program is also provided, allowing trainees to interact with senior executive leaders for career advice and real-life insights.

Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Deportation Officer Training
Selected ERO Deportation Officer candidates are required to attend and successfully complete the ERO Basic Immigration Law Enforcement Training Program (BIETP) at FLETC. This training is approximately 13 weeks in duration. Crucially, following BIETP, a mandatory 5-week Spanish Language Training Program is required. Failure to successfully complete this Spanish language training will result in removal from the Deportation Officer position. This mandatory language training highlights the critical importance of communication with non-English speaking populations in ERO’s immigration enforcement mission. Given ERO’s focus on interior immigration enforcement, the ability to communicate effectively with diverse populations is not merely an asset but a mandatory skill for successful job performance and removal operations, establishing a direct link between language proficiency and job retention.
Applicants who have previously completed HSI Special Agent Training, Border Patrol Integrated Training, or CBP Officer Training are exempt from attending BIETP but are still required to attend the Deportation Officer Transition Program (DOTP). It is important to note that no individual is permitted to attend more than two ERO Academy training sessions. Employees who do not successfully complete basic immigration law enforcement training and are terminated from the program are generally ineligible to return to the ERO Academy for training, unless selected as a law enforcement officer under a different vacancy announcement.
VI. Compensation and Benefits
A career as an ICE agent offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting the demanding and often hazardous nature of the work.
Salary and Pay Scale
ICE agents’ salaries adhere to the General Schedule (GS) pay scale, a standardized system for most federal government employees. Entry-level ICE agent salaries typically begin at the GL-7 level, starting around $48,371 per year. However, depending on education and experience, new agents may also enter at the GL-9 level. For GL-9, salaries can start around $41,563 to $54,028, based on 2012 figures, though current rates would be higher.
With experience and career progression, agents can advance significantly through the GS scale. Experienced agents can reach GS-13, with salaries starting around $77,210 per year, and potentially advance to GS-15, earning up to $167,603 per year. The GS scale progression is as follows:
* GL 7: Starting at $48,371 per year
* GS 9-12: Starting at $63,148 per year
* GS 11-13: Starting at $77,210 per year
* GS 12-13: Starting at $90,067 per year
* GS 14: Starting at $142,488 per year
* GS 15: Starting at $167,603 per year
It is important to note that these figures represent base pay. Agents can receive additional compensation, including Administratively Uncontrollable Overtime (AUO) of up to 25% of their base pay, and Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) pay for extra hours worked. During training at FLETC, trainees receive their base pay, and the federal government fully funds tuition, lodging, meals, and equipment, eliminating personal expenses for training.
Benefits Package
ICE offers an attractive benefits package designed to support the well-being and long-term financial security of its employees. Key benefits include:
* Health and Insurance: Agents are eligible to choose from a variety of premium federal health insurance programs, including the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program, Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP), Federal Flexible Spending Account Program (FSAFEDS), and Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP). Federal Life Insurance Programs, such as Federal Employees Group Life Insurance (FEGLI), are also available.
* Paid Time Off: Employees accrue annual leave (between 13 and 26 days per year, depending on years of federal service), 13 days of sick leave annually, and receive 10 paid federal holidays per year. Additionally, 15 days of military reserve leave are provided.
* Retirement Plan: ICE agents participate in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), which includes special provisions for law enforcement officers due to the inherently higher risk and physically/mentally demanding nature of their positions. These special provisions offer significant advantages compared to regular FERS employees:
   * Age and Service Requirements: Special provisions employees can retire at age 50 with 20 years of special provisions service, or at any age with 25 years of service. There is no penalty for early retirement if these thresholds are met.
   * Retirement Calculation: For the first 20 years of service, special provisions employees receive 1.7% of their high-3 average salary for each year, compared to 1% for regular FERS employees. For any years beyond 20, they receive 1%. This calculation results in significantly higher monthly annuity payments. For example, an officer with 20 years of service and a high-3 average of $100,000 would receive $34,000 per year (34% of $100,000), or approximately $2,833 per month.
   * Mandatory Retirement Age: Special provisions employees face a mandatory retirement age of 57 (or 56, depending on the agency) if they have completed at least 20 years of service. This rule exists because these roles require high physical and mental performance, and the government aims to prevent reduced effectiveness with increased age.
* Thrift Savings Plan (TSP): Similar to a 401(k), the TSP allows agents to save for retirement with government matching contributions.
* Additional Benefits: Other benefits may include flexible work schedules, telework options, tuition reimbursement, transportation subsidies, health and wellness programs, and access to fitness centers.

VII. Conclusion
Becoming an ICE Agent is a demanding yet rewarding career path within federal law enforcement, characterized by stringent requirements, rigorous testing, comprehensive training, and competitive compensation. The analysis reveals that the role of an “ICE Agent” is a broad term encompassing two distinct and specialized career trajectories: Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agents and Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Deportation Officers. Each division possesses unique missions, investigative scopes, and daily responsibilities, necessitating different, albeit overlapping, skill sets and qualifications.
The application process for both HSI and ERO roles is highly formalized and primarily digital, requiring meticulous attention to detail and proactive engagement from applicants through platforms like USAJOBS.gov. The emphasis on accurate and complete disclosure of personal history, including any derogatory information, underscores the paramount importance of integrity and trustworthiness for federal law enforcement personnel. The selection process is multi-phased, incorporating written assessments, comprehensive background investigations, medical examinations, drug tests, and polygraph examinations, all designed to identify candidates who are not only qualified but also possess the necessary character and reliability.
Physical fitness is a critical and continuously assessed component, with specific PFT standards for both HSI and ERO roles reflecting the arduous physical demands of the job. The age restrictions for entry into these positions are directly correlated with the need for sustained physical capability throughout an agent’s career, particularly given the benefits of the “special provisions” retirement system.

Training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) is extensive and mandatory. HSI Special Agents undergo a combined 22-27 weeks of foundational criminal investigator training (CITP) and agency-specific HSI Special Agent Training (HSISAT), covering a vast array of investigative techniques and legal authorities. ERO Deportation Officers complete a 13-week Basic Immigration Law Enforcement Training Program (BIETP), notably followed by a mandatory 5-week Spanish Language Training Program, highlighting the critical operational necessity of language proficiency in their daily duties.
In terms of compensation, ICE agents receive competitive salaries based on the federal General Schedule (GS) pay scale, with opportunities for advancement and additional overtime pay. The comprehensive benefits package, particularly the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) with its “special provisions” for law enforcement officers, provides enhanced retirement benefits and a mandatory retirement age that acknowledges the high-risk and demanding nature of the profession.
In summary, a career as an ICE Agent is not merely a job but a commitment to upholding national security and public safety through highly specialized and physically demanding law enforcement work. Success in this field requires a combination of strong academic background, relevant experience, unwavering integrity, and a dedication to continuous physical and professional readiness.

Most of all of the above was created by GEMINI AI. This was done as a Salute to the ones who are getting it done. It is a necessary, yet often times viewed as a negative activity by Media and Social Media. But scores of Graves across America being done by Bad Migrants who bring their Criminal Activities to our World. Might be your new next door neighbor.

Do You have what it takes? To become an ICE Agent? If so, what are you waiting for?