I-9 Update
Onboarding a new employee is a time-consuming process that requires diligent review of employment authorization materials. One major element of onboarding is the completion of the Form I-9, intended to document verification of the identity and employment authorization of each new employee. Form I-9 has seen many modifications and revisions over the years, including a significant update in 2013. The Department of Homeland Security (“DHS”), through the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (“USCIS”), released a new edition of the Form I-9 on July 17, 2017. This newest version of the form may be used immediately. However, USCIS has authorized a grace period during which either the new version of the Form or the last version may be used. Following the end of the grace period, on September 18, 2017, all U.S. employers are required to use the new Form I-9 for all new hires. Employers should only complete the new Form I-9 for new hires and current employees requiring reverification. Given the significance of the Form I-9, it is important for all employers to familiarize themselves with the new features of the Form and the mandatory time frame for its usage.