Acceptable Documents for I-9 Form: A Comprehensive Guide
The I-9 form is a critical document used by employers in the United States to verify the identity and employment authorization of their employees. To ensure compliance with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) regulations, employers must carefully select and document acceptable documents for I-9 form purposes. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the acceptable documents for I-9 form, helping employers understand the requirements and make informed decisions.
What is the I-9 Form?
The I-9 form, officially known as the “Employment Eligibility Verification Form,” is a mandatory document that employers must complete for each employee hired in the United States. The form requires employers to collect information from employees regarding their identity and employment authorization. This process helps ensure that employers hire individuals who are authorized to work in the United States.
Acceptable Documents for I-9 Form
To comply with the I-9 form requirements, employers must collect acceptable documents from employees. These documents are categorized into three types: identity documents, employment authorization documents, and combination documents. Below is a list of acceptable documents for each category:
1. Identity Documents:
– U.S. Passport
– Driver’s license with a photograph
– State-issued identification card with a photograph
– Military identification card
– Green card (Permanent Resident Card)
– Birth certificate issued by the state, local, or federal government
2. Employment Authorization Documents:
– U.S. Passport with a Machine Readable Zone
– Employment authorization document (EAD)
– I-551 stamp in a passport
– I-766 Employment Authorization Document
– I-688B Temporary Employment Authorization Document
– I-688A Temporary Employment Authorization Document
3. Combination Documents:
– One identity document and one employment authorization document
– Two identity documents
– Two employment authorization documents
Special Considerations
It is important to note that employers must accept a document as acceptable if it is on the USCIS List of Acceptable Documents. Additionally, employers should not request more documents than are necessary to establish employment eligibility. Employers should also maintain I-9 forms for each employee for a minimum of three years from the date of hire or one year after the date of termination, whichever is later.
Conclusion
Understanding the acceptable documents for I-9 form is crucial for employers to comply with USCIS regulations and ensure a lawful workforce. By carefully selecting and documenting the appropriate documents, employers can avoid potential fines and penalties associated with non-compliance. Always refer to the USCIS website or consult with an immigration attorney for the most up-to-date information and guidance on acceptable documents for I-9 form purposes.
