What does Form I-9 employment eligibility verification require?

Short answer

Form I-9 employment eligibility verification requires employers to verify the identity and employment authorization of individuals hired for employment in the United States. The employer must complete the Form I-9 and examine documents that evidence the identity and employment authorization of the individual.

The rule says

"A person or entity that hires or recruits or refers for a fee an individual for employment must ensure that the individual properly: (A) Completes section 1—“Employee Information and Verification”—on the Form I-9 at the time of hire and signs the attestation with a handwritten or electronic signature in accordance with paragraph (h) of this section" (8 CFR 274a.2(b)(1)(i))

"Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification Form, is used in complying with the requirements of this 8 CFR 274a.1-274a.11." (8 CFR 274a.2(a)(2))

In plain English

Employers must complete the Form I-9 and verify the identity and employment authorization of new hires. This involves examining documents such as a passport, driver's license, or social security card, and recording the document information on the Form I-9. The employer and employee must also sign the Form I-9 under penalty of perjury, attesting to the accuracy of the information provided.

What to do

• Complete the Form I-9 for each new hire
• Examine documents that evidence the identity and employment authorization of the individual
• Record the document information on the Form I-9
• Sign the Form I-9 under penalty of perjury, along with the employee