The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has published a revised version of Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, designed to reduce errors and enhance form completion using a computer. Beginning Jan. 22, 2017, employers must use only the new version, dated 11/14/2016.
Among the changes in the new version, Section 1 asks for “other last names used” rather than “other names used,” and streamlines certification for certain foreign nationals.
Other changes include:
• The addition of prompts to ensure information is entered correctly.
• The ability to enter multiple preparers and translators.
• A dedicated area for including additional information rather than having to add it in the margins.
• A supplemental page for the preparer/translator.
The instructions have been separated from the form, in line with other USCIS forms, and include specific instructions for completing each field.
The revised Form I-9 is also easier to complete on a computer. Enhancements include drop-down lists and calendars for filling in dates, on-screen instructions for each field, easy access to the full instructions, and an option to clear the form and start over. When the employer prints the completed form, a quick response (QR) code is automatically generated, which can be read by most QR readers.
For employers seeking additional guidance, the USCIS will host a stakeholder teleconference to discuss the revised Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification. You can register for the event by clicking here.
Among topics covered, participants will
• Hear about the enhancements included in the revised Form I-9,
• Learn employment eligibility verification best practices, and
• Review questions answered about each section of the form.
The form and additional information can all be found on the USCIS website. If you have any questions you can contact a member of the SIMA team at 804-285-5700.
