U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) has issued a new revised Form I-9 for immediate use by employers. A copy of the revised Form I-9 can be downloaded from the USCIS website. USCIS has also updated its Handbook for Employers, Guidance for Completing Form I-9 to include information about completing the revised Form I-9. A copy can also be downloaded from the USCIS website.
While employers are expected to use the revised Form I-9 immediately for all new hires and reverifications, USCIS recognizes that certain employers will need time to update their business policies and procedures. Accordingly, employers may continue to use previously accepted versions of Form I-9 until May 7, 2013. After the expiration of this grace period on May 7, 2013, all employers will be required to use the new Form I-9. Please note, employers should not complete a new Form I-9 for employees who already have a Form I-9 on file. Additionally, while a Spanish version of the revised Form I-9 is available on the USCIS website, such is only allowed to be used by employers in Puerto Rico. Spanish speaking employers and employees in the United States may, however, use this form for reference in completing the English version of the revised Form I-9.