2026 Immigration Compliance & Enforcement Guidance
Nicole Morehouse
Employers have long needed to comply with various immigration-related compliance requirements, such as Form I-9. Form I-9 was created under the Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA) of 1986 to establish a standardized process for employers to verify the identity and work authorization of individuals hired in the United States. Since its introduction in 1986, the form has undergone multiple revisions to improve accuracy and compliance while continuing to serve as the cornerstone of federal employment eligibility verification.
Ten years later, in 1996, what is now known as E-Verify began as part of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act (IIRIRA), and was originally launched as a pilot program to test additional employment verification methods. The pilot program was initially voluntary and launched in the following states: California, Florida, Illinois, Nebraska, New York, and Texas. The pilot became a web-based interface in 2004. The pilot was named E-Verify in 2007 (around ten years after testing began) and has since expanded through federal contractor mandates and state-level requirements, continually evolving with new features and broader adoption.
That brings us to today, again around ten years later, as the federal government emphasizes immigration enforcement priorities. With heightened awareness, employers have been actively reviewing procedures, conducting audits, etc., using resources like the following:
Form I-9
USCIS I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification
USCIS Handbook for Employers M-274
E-Verify
Hiring
USCIS Information for Employers and Employees
USA.gov Immigration and U.S. Citizenship
Common Immigration Compliance Challenges
Even with these resources, employers frequently face pitfalls that can still expose them to risk when they believe their processes are sound. Some of the most common immigration compliance challenges include:
- Unfamiliarity with government audit and worksite enforcement processes
- Missing, incorrect, or incomplete Form I-9
- Misunderstanding remote verification rules
- Recordkeeping and retention gaps
- Confusion around E-Verify requirements
- Outdated internal processes
MRA—Your Partner in Immigration Compliance
Navigating immigration compliance can feel increasingly complex. MRA is here to make it easier. Our team has deep expertise in Form I-9 requirements, E-Verify processes, and the evolving landscape of employment eligibility rules.
Whether you’re responding to an audit, strengthening internal procedures, or simply looking to ensure your organization stays in compliance, we provide clear guidance and practical best practices. From reviewing your internal procedures to helping you prepare for potential government inquiries, our Advisors are ready to support every step of your compliance journey.
Ready to Strengthen Your Compliance?
MRA’s 24/7 HR Hotline is here to help you stay confident and audit-ready. Contact us at 866.474.6854 or [email protected] for assistance.
Sources:
e-verify.gov/about-e-verify/history-and-milestones
justice.gov
eeoc.gov
dol.gov
