Form I-9 Revision

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently published a revised version of the Employment Eligibility Verification Form (Form I-9).  The new form, dated 11/14/2016, will be required for use by all employers beginning on January 22, 2017.  Until then, employers may continue to use the version dated 3/8/2013 or the new version.

The new version of the form is designed to minimize user error, particularly when the form is completed electronically.  Among the changes, 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, and a supplemental page for the preparer/translator.  Additionally, the instructions have been separated from the form.

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.

Form I-9 requirements were established in November 1986 when Congress passed the Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA). IRCA prohibits employers from hiring people, including U.S. citizens, for employment in the United States without verifying their identity and employment authorization on Form I-9.

For more information on Form I-9 and immigration compliance for employers, visit AGC’s Labor and HR Topical Resources webpage or www.USCIS.gov/I-9central (link is external).