The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently announced that it has redesigned Form I-9, the Employment Eligibility Verification document. These changes aim to enhance user experience and streamline the verification process for employers handling the intricacies of immigration compliance. 

Here's what's new to the I-9 form , and how HRlogics can help you navigate these changes effortlessly: 

• Streamlined Sections: The revised Form I-9 condenses Sections 1 and 2 into a single-sided sheet, reducing complexity and saving your time.
• Mobile-Friendly Design: Accessible on tablets and mobile devices, the new form lets you complete verifications conveniently on the go.
• Flexible Certification: Preparer/Translator Certification is now in a separate supplement, giving you the flexibility to provide it when needed.
• Effortless Reverification: Section 3, Reverification and Rehire, has its own supplement, making rehiring and reverification straightforward.
• Comprehensive Guidance: Updated Lists of Acceptable Documents now include receipts and links to extension information, ensuring you have all the necessary details at your fingertips.
• Clear Instructions: The new form's simplified instructions reduced the number of pages from 15 to 8, making it easier to understand and complete.
• Remote Verification Option: A convenient checkbox allows employers to indicate remote verification, enhancing flexibility and compliance.

Unlocking Remote Verification: Employer Eligibility Criteria

USCIS has charted a clear path for employers seeking the remote verification option. To use this streamlined procedure, employers need to meet specific eligibility criteria outlined by USCIS:

• Enrolled in E-Verify: Employers must be enrolled in E-Verify and remain in good standing and compliance with all E-Verify program requirements.
• E-Verify Training: Complete E-Verify training as part of the enrollment process.
• Consistent Application: When using the alternative procedure, you must use it consistently for all employees at a given worksite or only for remote employees, ensuring fair treatment regardless of nationality or immigration status.

The Alternative Verification Path: Essential Steps for Employers

Embarking on the alternative procedure opens a streamlined avenue for employers. Employers must take the following steps within the first 3 business days of an employee's start date in order to use the remote verification option:

• Document Examination: Examine all Form I-9 documents, ensuring their authenticity.
• Live Video Verification: Conduct a live video interaction with the employee to verify the validity of the documentation.
• Form I-9 Marking: Check the designated box on the new version of Form I-9, indicating the use of the alternative procedure (or write "alternative procedure" until October 31st, using the 10/21/2019 edition).
• Documentation Retention: Retain clear and legible copies of all I-9 documentation, including double-sided documents.

Note, employers must be ready to furnish federal government officials with clear and legible copies of I-9 documentation in the case of an audit or investigation, which can be daunting experiences for employers, underscoring the critical importance of meticulous documentation.

With HRlogics Compliance Hive , we streamline this process, ensuring your I-9 records are accurate and easily accessible, offering peace of mind in the face of audits or investigations.

Why Choose HRlogics as Your I-9 Compliance Partner?

At HRlogics , we understand the importance of seamless compliance. Our Clear I-9 solution provides you with a secure, user-friendly platform to create, manage, and store I-9 forms. With automatic error-checking and alerts, you can identify and rectify errors swiftly, ensuring accuracy and compliance.