How to Complete the New I-9 Form in 2025: What You Need to Know
If you’re an employer or a new hire, you’ve probably heard about the new I-9 form released by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in 2024. The I-9 form has always been a staple in the hiring process, ensuring that employees are legally authorized to work in the United States. But with the latest updates, there are some key changes you need to be aware of—including the option for remote verification under specific conditions. Let’s break it all down.
What’s New: Changes to the I-9 Form in 2024?
Seal for the U.S. Citizens and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The new I-9 form has been redesigned to make it more user-friendly while incorporating updated regulations that reflect modern hiring practices. One of the most significant changes is the ability for certain employers to verify documents remotely. However, this isn’t a free-for-all; specific requirements must be met before taking advantage of this option.
Here’s what you need to know:
Simplified Form Structure – The form has been condensed to one page, making it easier to complete.
Remote Document Verification – Employers enrolled in the federal E-Verify program now have the option to verify employment authorization remotely, provided they follow additional security steps.
Revised Instructions – The USCIS has clarified and simplified the form’s instructions to reduce errors and confusion.
More Inclusive Language – The updated form now includes more inclusive terminology to reflect a broader range of work authorization documents.
How to Complete the New I-9 Form
Filling out the I-9 is still a two-step process involving both the employee and employer. However, with the new updates, there are a few key points to remember.
Step 1: Employee Completes Section 1
On or before their first day of work, the new hire must complete Section 1 of the I-9 form. This includes basic personal information such as name, address, and Social Security number (if applicable), as well as attesting to their work authorization status. Employees must sign and date the form to confirm that all information provided is accurate.
Step 2: Employer Reviews and Completes Section 2
Within three business days of the employee’s start date, the employer must verify the employee’s identity and work authorization by reviewing their documents. Acceptable documents are listed on the form, divided into List A (documents that establish both identity and work authorization) and List B and C (documents that establish identity and work authorization separately).
If the employer is participating in remote verification, they must conduct a live video interaction with the employee to inspect the documents and retain copies of them. This option is only available to E-Verify participants who are in good standing.
Step 3: Updating and Reverification (If Necessary)
In cases where an employee’s work authorization is temporary, employers must track expiration dates and complete Section 3 when updates or reverifications are needed. The new I-9 form makes it clearer when and how to handle these updates.
Who Can Use Remote Verification?
Remote document verification is a game-changer, but it’s not available to everyone. Only employers enrolled in E-Verify who comply with all program requirements can use this feature. Employers must:
Review documents via live video
Retain copies of the presented documents
Complete a special checkbox on the I-9 indicating remote verification was used
This new flexibility helps streamline hiring, particularly for companies hiring remote employees. However, businesses not enrolled in E-Verify must continue conducting in-person verification.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
The new I-9 form is designed to reduce errors, but mistakes can still happen. Some of the most common include:
Missing signatures – Both employees and employers must sign the form.
Using expired documents – Always check that work authorization documents are valid at the time of verification.
Forgetting to reverify – If an employee’s work authorization is temporary, employers must track expiration dates and reverify on time.
Final Thoughts
The release of the new I-9 form in 2024 is a welcome update that simplifies the process while allowing more flexibility for modern workplaces. Whether you’re an employer or employee, understanding these changes is crucial to ensuring compliance with U.S. employment laws. If you’re an employer considering remote verification, now is the time to enroll in E-Verify and familiarize yourself with the requirements.
Staying compliant is key, so make sure you’re following the latest guidelines to avoid penalties and keep your hiring process smooth. Need more details? Visit the official USCIS website for the latest updates and resources.
Got questions about the new I-9 form? Drop them in the comments—we’re here to help!
