I-9 Remote Verification Extended – But Only For Some

Every employer should know that all new hires must complete USCIS Form I-9 and provide documentary proof of identity and of authorization to work as part of the onboarding process. The law requires that employers physically inspect the documents presented, either through use of an employee or an agent authorized for that purpose, in the employee's physical presence.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Homeland Security temporarily relaxed the requirement that employers physically inspect documents. Employers were allowed to accept copies transmitted by e-mail or other electronic means, and directed to annotate Form I-9. These were temporary measures designed to address workplace shutdowns caused by the pandemic. They were not intended to be permanent, and by their own terms did not apply if the employer resumed "normal workplace operations" with employees reporting to work.