Release of the New Form I-9

Ever since the current version of the Form I-9 expired at the end of March 2016, employers have been patiently awaiting the release of the new Form I-9. The wait is finally over. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced in September that the updated Form I-9 will be made available by November 22, 2016, with an expiration date of August 21, 2019. The updated form will be available for download at www.uscis.gov.

The current form with the revision date of March 8, 2013, may continue to be used until January 21, 2017. After January 21, 2017, this version of the Form I-9 will be invalid.

The new Form I-9 will now include some ‘smart’ error-checking features, as well as several structural changes. The changes specifically aim to help employers reduce technical errors for which they could be fined. Employers can anticipate many new changes, several of which are outlined below: 

· Drop-down lists and calendars.

· Embedded instructions for completing each designated field.

· Additional spaces to enter multiple preparers and translators.

· A dedicated area to included additional information which the employer currently notates in the margins of the form.

· Validation on certain fields to ensure that the information is entered correctly into the document.

· Buttons which will allow the employee to access instructions, print, and/or clear the form to start over.

· A new “Citizenship/Immigration Status” field located at the top of section 2.

· A separate instructions document from the form itself.

It is important to keep in mind that for employers who utilize the new form using Adobe Reader are still required to print the form, obtain handwritten signatures, secure the document according to USCIS regulations, monitor reverifications, and update information into E-Verify, as required.

CBS is very knowledgeable on USCIS regulations as well as proper Form I-9 compliance. Please call us today so we may ensure your organization is compliant with USCIS regulations. Of course, CBS will be pleased to assist your organization with any HR compliance issue you may – or could be – experiencing.