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.