The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has released a new edition of Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, dated January 20, 2025. Employers should begin using this updated form to ensure compliance with federal verification requirements. The form is available for download on the USCIS website at uscis.gov/i-9. This edition will remain valid through May 31,2027.

Key points to note:

• Expiration Dates: The prior edition of the form, dated August 1, 2023, is still acceptable for use at this time, but employers should be aware of the applicable July 31, 2026 expiration date for this version.
• Electronic Versions: Employers using electronic versions of Form I-9 should update their systems with the version expiring on May 31, 2027, by no later than July 31, 2026.

Minor Changes to Form I-9: Although the revised FormI-9 retains the same overall format, USCIS has made several minor updates. One notable change is the revision of the fourth checkbox in Section 1, which is now labeled “An alien authorized to work,” replacing the previous terminology. Additionally, the descriptions of two List B documents have been clarified, and the DHS Privacy Notice included in the form’s instructions has been updated to reflect current standards.

E-Verify Updates: In parallel with these changes, USCIS has announced updates to the E-Verify system, effective April 3, 2025.The terminology used during case creation will now mirror the revised language on Form I-9. Specifically, the citizenship status previously labeled as “A noncitizen authorized to work” will now appear as “An alien authorized to work.” Employers must select this updated designation when submitting cases through E-Verify if an employee attests to that status on Form I-9. E-Verify users who rely on Web Services applications will see this language automatically reflected during case creation. Organizations using both E-Verify and E-Verify+ are advised to confirm that their systems accurately reflect the updated status term and that the transition is completed promptly.

Compliance Guidance – Actions Needed:

Employers are encouraged to:

• Download and start using the updated Form I-9 as soon as possible.
• Ensure that any electronic systems using Form I-9 are updated by the specified deadlines.
• Familiarize themselves with the minor changes in document descriptions and privacy notices to ensure proper completion of the form.
• Update E-Verify case entries to reflect the updated statutory language for citizenship status.

We have extensive experience guiding clients through I-9compliance and related worksite enforcement issues and challenges. Contact us fora consultation to ensure your company is meeting all compliance obligations under the regulations.