U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) published today, November 14, 2016, a revised version of Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification.
By January 22, 2017, employers must use only the new version, dated 11/14/2016 N. Until then, employers may continue to use the version dated 03/08/2013 N or the new version. The new Form I-9 can be found here: https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/files/form/i-9.pdf
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 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. Please note that the employer must print out and sign the form after completing it online.
The instructions have been separated from the form, in line with other USCIS forms, and include specific instructions for completing each field.
By way of background, 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.