Border Patrol invites retired agents and officers back to the badge

The initiative now welcomes retired CBP officers and Border Patrol agents with full pay and pension, aiming to boost leadership and operational capacity

Border patrol agent

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

WASHINGTON — U.S. Customs and Border Protection is expanding an initiative launched earlier this year that allows retired Border Patrol agents and CBP officers to return to duty with full pay and retirement benefits.

In July, CBP opened the reemployment program to agents who retired between July 2020 and July 2024. That effort included a Dual Compensation Waiver, which allowed participants to receive both their full annuity and full salary without reduction.

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The agency said it is now broadening the opportunity to include retired CBP officers. CBP said the move aims to bring experienced personnel back to the front lines to strengthen leadership and mentorship within the ranks. There is no specified date range for retirees who want to return.

“These initiatives recognize the invaluable experience and dedication of our former personnel,” said Melvin Harris, acting assistant commissioner for Human Resources Management. “Their expertise is an asset to CBP, and we’re honored to welcome them back.”

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Full compensation

Through the Dual Compensation Waiver, eligible retirees can continue to collect both their pension and their federal salary. CBP said the initiative supports mission readiness while preserving institutional knowledge and providing retirees an opportunity to serve again.

Positions are full-time, term appointments typically lasting one to four years, with extensions possible based on mission needs. Reemployed annuitants serve at the will of the appointing official and may be assigned to high-impact operational or leadership roles.

CBP is currently accepting applications for:

Applicants must have been retired for at least one year by the announcement’s closing date.

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