U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced that employers can continue using the most recent Form I-9 until May 31, 2027. This update comes with an extension of the document’s expiration date, providing HR professionals with additional time to ensure compliance.
Employers must be aware that they should now be using the form with an edition date of August 1, 2023. Newly downloaded forms will reflect the updated expiration date. However, if an employer has previously downloaded or printed forms that show the old expiration date of July 31, 2026, those forms can still be used until their respective expiration dates.
USCIS emphasized that while both forms are currently acceptable, employers should transition their electronic Form I-9 systems to the new expiration date as soon as possible. The deadline to make this update is July 31, 2026.
Form I-9 is a crucial tool for verifying an employee’s identity and eligibility to work in the United States. Every employer must ensure that a Form I-9 is completed for each employee within a specific timeframe following their start date. This process is essential for maintaining compliance with federal regulations and avoiding potential penalties.
In summary, USCIS has provided a clear timeline for the continued use of the most recent Form I-9. Employers should take note of the new expiration date and update their systems accordingly to ensure they remain in compliance with federal requirements.
