The fact that 8.5 million illegal immigrants have obtained work in the country is a result of employers paying workers under the table, unknowingly hiring workers who have committed document fraud, and hiring non-U.S. citizens whom the government authorizes to work temporarily.
All employers in the U.S. are legally required to verify that new hires have completed an I-9 form, which requires the applicant’s Social Security number, proof of identity, and work authorization documentation.
Employers who hire illegal immigrants may face consequences, including civil fines and criminal prosecution. Under the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, employers face fines of up to $3,000 per worker and/or imprisonment for up to six months.
Violations of I-9 paperwork, which is the document that workers must submit to employers, could result in a fine of $281 to $2,789.
Additionally, employers who hire illegal immigrants who are not authorized to work in the country may be fined up to $11,000 for every worker.