USCIS Requests Public Input on Remote Document Examination for Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification

On October 26, 2021, the Department of Homeland Security, United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requested public input regarding Form I-9, a form utilized by employers to attest that they have physically examined documentation provided by a potential employee and verified employee identity and employment eligibility.  After COVID-19 was declared a National Emergency in March 2020, DHS announced that it was permitting employers to examine these employee documents remotely (for example, over video link, fax, or email, etc.).  These flexibilities were extended until December 31, 2021.  USCIS is seeking feedback on employer and specifically small employer use of these flexibilities, and the direct and indirect burdens and benefits of offering a permanent remote option.  The agency is also seeking feedback on possibly requiring enrollment in the E-Verify program to utilize these flexibilities.  

Comments are due on December 27, 2021.

• Read the Federal Register– Request for Public Input and submit comments.
  
• Advocacy contact: Janis Reyes, Janis.Reyes@sba.gov