On November 14, 2016 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that the new I-9 Form has been published. Below is information posted by the USCIS. The changes to the Form were designed to reduce errors and enhance form completion using a computer.
To download a copy of the new form and to review other information posted by the USCIS go to https://www.uscis.gov/sites/defalt/files/files/form/i-9.pdf.
Click here for a copy of the new I-9 form.
Click here for a copy of the new I-9 instructions.
By January 22, 2017 employers must use only the new version dated 11/14/2016N. Until then, employers can continue to use the version dated 03/08/2013N or use the new version.
Changes to the Form
The new form I-9 has numerous changes including:
Section 1 asks for “other last names used” rather than “other names used,” and streamlines certification for certain foreign nationals.
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.
Expanded instructions: In the prior form the instructions were part of the document; the instructions now consisting of 15 pages have been separated from the form, and include specific instructions for completing each field.
Computer Version
Employers and employees may now choose to complete any or all sections of the Form on paper or using a computer, or a combination of both. If completing using a computer, there are 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.
It is important to note that the Form I-9 obtained from the USCIS website is not considered an “electronic Form I-9” under Department of Homeland Security regulations, so they cannot be signed electronically. So whether the information is entered on the form is on the computer or handwritten, the completed form must be printed and signed, and dated where required.
For more information about USCIS and its programs, please visit uscis.gov or follow USCIS on Twitter (@Everify), YouTube (/uscis), Facebook(/uscis), and the USCIS blog The Beacon.