Revised Form I-9 now available Email
Monday, November 21, 2016 04:00 AM

New Form I-9 releasedU.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has published a revised version of Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification. The changes are designed to reduce errors and enhance form completion using a computer.

By Jan. 22, 2017, employers must use only the new version, dated 11/14/2016. Until then, they can continue to use the version dated 03/08/2013 or the new version. 

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.

  • Employees only need to provide other last names used in Section 1, rather than all names used.
  • The certification in Section 1 for certain foreign nationals takes less time to complete.
  • There are additional spaces to enter multiple preparers and translators.
  • There is a dedicated area to enter additional information that employers have been required to notate in the margins of the form.
  • 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:

  • Checks to certain fields to ensure information is entered correctly.
  • Drop-down lists and calendars.
  • Instructions on the screen that users can access to complete each field.
  • Buttons that will allow users to access the instructions electronically, print the form, and clear the form to 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.

Employers should continue to follow the existing storage and retention rules for all of their previously completed Forms I-9.

To download the new form or learn more, visit https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central

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