INDUSTRY NEWS
USCIS Introduces a Permanent Virtual Verification Option for Form I-9 Completion
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has released the eagerly anticipated rule allowing for alternatives to physical inspection (the "API rule") for the "Remote Form I-9 Alternative Procedure."
This rule offers an optional alternative to the traditional in-person physical examination of documentation for establishing identity and employment authorization when completing the Form I-9.
The final rule allows employers who are participants in good standing in E-Verify to complete Form I-9 and perform document inspections via video conference. Starting August 1, 2023, employers will have the option to use this alternative procedure, making the process more flexible and efficient while ensuring compliance.
The API rule allows certain qualified employers (namely, those who are E-Verify participants in good standing) to conduct Form I-9 document inspections virtually if:
- The hiring is being done through an E-Verify hiring site and an E-Verify case is created for each new hire;
- The employer retains copies of all documents used in the Form I-9 completion process;
- The employer and/or those creating the E-Verify cases complete certain trainings; and
- The employer and/or authorized representative examines the copies of the documents submitted by the employee, conducts a video call with the employee where those same documents are presented again, and notates the virtual inspection on the Form I-9 itself.
Employers may begin using this method on August 1, 2023, but may continue conducting in-person document inspections and Form I-9 completion if they choose to do so. The API rule gives organizations another means by which Form I-9 can be completed. However, those implementing both in-person and API completion methods must ensure that they are not offered in a seemingly discriminatory manner.
The entire text of the rule is available here and the implementing guidance available here. BIG encourages all organizations to thoroughly review the rule with competent legal counsel and their internal teams before implementing a virtual inspection program.
Posted: July 25, 2023
All Rights Reserved © 2023 Business Information Group, Inc.
This document and/or presentation is provided as a service to our customers. Its contents are designed solely for informational purposes, and should not be inferred or understood as legal advice or binding case law, nor shared with any third parties. Persons in need of legal assistance should seek the advice of competent legal counsel. Although care has been taken in preparation of these materials, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, currency or completeness of the information contained within it. Anyone using this information does so at his or her own risk.