The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has published a revised version of Form I-9, which employers can start using now. The last day employers may use the old Form I-9 (with a revision date of 03/08/13 N) is January 21, 2017. The new Form I-9 is meant to be more user friendly, with an emphasis on decreasing technical errors. The new form may also be completed using a computer, which comes with a number of new features to help the user along the process.
The changes to Form I-9 include:
- Employees only need to provide other last names used in Section 1, instead of all names used.
- The certification in Section 1 for foreign nationals is more streamlined.
- There is more space to enter multiple preparers and translators.
- There is a dedicated space for employers to make notes in Section 2.
And when Form I-9 is completed on a computer, the user will see:
- Checks to certain fields to ensure information is entered correctly.
- Drop-down lists and calendars.
- Question mark icons next to each field that provide instructions on how to complete that field.
- Buttons on each page that allow the user to view instructions, print the form, or clear the form and start over.
It is important for employers to familiarize themselves with the new Form I-9 and to make sure new employees are fully and accurately completing it. The new form can be access at here.
For more information on compliance with Federal immigration laws and completing Form I-9, contact Zoraida M. Vale.