U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has narrowed its definition of “substantive” Form I-9 violations, meaning more errors are now treated as serious and immediately subject to fines. Mistakes once considered minor and correctable — such as missing information — may now trigger penalties without a grace period. With enforcement increasing and audits more frequent, employers face higher financial risk and must strengthen compliance through audits, training, and improved I-9 processes to avoid costly violations.
