In a sweeping recruitment push, President Donald Trump’s administration is offering student loan forgiveness and up to $50,000 in signing bonuses to new U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) recruits, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed this week.
The announcement comes as part of Trump’s initiative to hire 10,000 new ICE agents in support of his goal to deport one million illegal immigrants per year. The effort is being backed by major funding from his recently signed “One Big Beautiful Bill”, which includes significant allocations for immigration enforcement.
“Your country is calling you to serve at ICE,” said Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. “This is a defining moment in our nation’s history. Your courage has never been more essential.”
Key Incentives for ICE Recruits:
- Up to $50,000 signing bonus
- Student loan repayment and forgiveness
- 25% Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP) for HSI Special Agents
- Overtime benefits (AUI) for Deportation Officers
- Enhanced retirement plans
The DHS launched a national campaign titled “Defend the Homeland” on Tuesday, featuring recruitment posters with images of President Trump and Secretary Noem. Promotional materials will now roll out in major cities, on college campuses, at law enforcement job fairs, and via national networks.
White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson stated that the program is part of Trump’s broader promise to restore immigration enforcement after what the administration views as years of lax policies under previous leadership.
“The funding from President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill will play a key role in fulfilling his promise to the American people to deport criminal illegal aliens,” Jackson said.
Trump unveiled the initiative during a visit to a border-area medical tent, joined by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Secretary Noem. The event was part of a broader tour aimed at reinforcing the administration’s commitment to border security and immigration control.
The campaign is already drawing praise from conservative lawmakers and law enforcement unions, while critics have raised concerns over the militarization of immigration enforcement and the politicization of student loan relief.
Nonetheless, the Trump administration insists the program is about “restoring order and defending the homeland,” and it’s urging qualified candidates to apply immediately.
