E-Alerts

Employers, Take Note: USCIS Revises Form I-9

Last month, United States Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) published a revised version of the I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification form, which is used to verify employees’ eligibility to work in the United States. The updated Form I-9 is available on the USCIS website.

By no later than January 22, 2017, employers must begin using the revised I-9 form (which is dated 11/14/16) for all new hires and re-verifications. Through January 21, 2017, employers may use either the earlier version of the form (dated 3/8/13) or the revised version.

The changes to Form I-9 include:

• Changing the “other names used” field in Section 1 to “other last names used”;
• Streamlining the certification process for certain foreign nationals by requiring only their alien registration number, Form I-94 admissions number, or foreign passport number;
• Allowing multiple preparers and translators to assist with completing the Form I-9;
• Providing a dedicated area for including additional information; and
• Separating the instructions from the I-9 form itself, and including specific instructions for completing each field.

In addition, several enhancements were made in order to facilitate completion of I-9 forms by computer. These additions include drop-down lists and calendars for filling in dates, prompts to ensure that information is entered correctly, and on-screen instructions for each field.

However, employers should note that the revised Form I-9 must still be physically printed out and signed by the employer (or the employer’s agent) and the employee.

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If you have questions about the new Form I-9, or need assistance with any other business immigration issue, please do not hesitate to contact us.