How To Become An Immigration Agent
An Immigration Agent Must Protect Borders and Laws
We all know an immigration agent is the person to be afraid of if you've come to the country illegally, but their jobs actually have many dimensions. Also known as ICE, or immigration and customs enforcement agent, an agent can choose to work in a variety of venues, from investigating in the field to being placed in any one of the many federal facilities around the country. Like all federal positions, since 2001 their chief mandate has been the war against terror, so many of their duties revolve around the protection of the country against suspicious or illegal smuggling or people. Also like all federal positions among careers in criminal justice, the amount of jobs are expected to grow about 11% and are very competitive, so with an average salary that US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports between $47,000-$62,000 and many benefits, this is a challenging job to get, but feasible with the right background.
How to Get an ICE Job
If becoming an immigration agent is what you want to do, then make sure to obtain all the necessary requirements, since missing only one aspect could cost you your chance.
1. You must be a US citizen or have lived in the country for at least 3 of the last 5 years.
2. You must be under 40.
3. You must have a 4 year bachelors degree. It can be taken in any subject, but the most appropriate majors are a criminal justice degree or homeland security degree. Consider doing online degrees at Liberty University, Capella University or Everest University Online.
4. You need a valid driver's license.
5. You must have professional work experience, and it is recommended that it is in some sort of government capacity.
6. You must undergo a battery of tests: physical exams, background checks, interviews and written tests.
7. You then must complete basic ICE training for 14-18 weeks. You will cover different subjects, from learning Spanish to immigration laws to law enforcement training.
Job Description
Once you have finished your training session at an ICE district facility, you can take on some of the functions of an immigration agent. You will act to enforce immigration laws, protect commercial flights and secure federal structures. In terms of enforcing immigration laws, you will investigate illegal immigrants and process, detain and/or deport them. You will also be active to control smuggling across the border, especially in regard to illegal drugs or weapons that could be used for terrorist purposes. The work is always varied, but it is also quite fast-paced and stressful, so you need to not only be properly trained but mentally prepared as well. An immigration agent has a lot of responsibility, so expect a challenge.
Criminal Justice Degree |
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