We all know that employers are required to document their employees’ identity and work eligibility on the Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, within three days of hire. Violations of immigration law can expose employers to possible civil and criminal penalties.   U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is responsible for enforcing the nation’s immigration and customs laws. To minimize vulnerabilities that help unauthorized workers gain unlawful employment, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) introduced the ICE Mutual Agreement between Government and Employers (IMAGE) program in 2006. The goal of the IMAGE program is to reduce the employment of unauthorized workers through outreach, education and training. ICE advocates IMAGE’s Twelve Best Employment Practices.

Learn more about ICE's IMAGE program and certification here.