After extensive changes to Form I-9 in 2023, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced an extension of the form expiration date.
Why is it important to update to the new Form I-9?
The Employment Eligibility Verification form (Form I-9) expiration date has been extended from July 31, 2026, to May 31, 2027. Employers should use the Form I-9 dated August 1, 2023, which may show an expiration date of either July 31, 2026, or May 31, 2027. Both versions are valid until their expiration dates. However, only the updated Form I-9 with the May 31, 2027 expiration date can be downloaded from the USCIS website. It is strongly recommended that employers switch to the new form with the later expiration date as soon as possible and no later than July 31, 2026.
What Are the Key Changes to Form I-9?
On August 1, 2023, the USCIS released a new version of Form I-9 that employers were to begin using on November 1, 2023. Fundamental changes to the form include:
- Sections 1 and 2 are combined on one page, keeping all previous fields but merging some.
- The certification area for preparers and translators has been moved to a separate supplement for employers to use when verifying or recertifying.
- Section 3, which covers Reverification and Rehire, is now in its own supplement for employers.
- The list of acceptable documents now includes certain receipts and offers links for information on automatic extensions of employment authorization documents.
The updated Form I-9 features revised instructions, which have been condensed from 15 pages to eight. These instructions include additional definitions, streamlined processes, and explanations on using the new checkboxes to indicate remote examination of Form I-9 documents.
Are You Prepared for the Updated Form I-9 Requirements?
Employers seeking further resources can visit USCIS’ I-9 Central or participate in a complimentary Form I-9 webinar. Employers must implement the updated Form I-9 no later than July 31, 2026.