Why is the Form I-9 used in the USA?

The Form I-9 is used in the USA to verify the identity and work authorization of people hired for working in the US. Employers in the US have to ensure the submission of a complete Form I-9 for each person they recruit. These would include citizens of the US as well as foreign workers.

 

The Form I-9 has to be completed by both the employees and the employers. Employees have to attest their work authorization in the US on the form.

 

There are four categories of people who are eligible:

1. Citizens of USA
2. Non-citizen nationals. For example, people from American Samoa.
3. Permanent Residents of the USA holding a Green Card
4. Foreign workers with employment authorization in the US
    

The Form I-9 basically verifies that a worker falls into any one of the above categories in the US. Only such workers can legally work in the US.
 

Each employer in the US should retain the Form I-9 for all their employees. Also, the employers need to treat the Form I-9 for each employee the same.

 

If there are any errors on the form, it has to be promptly rectified. The errors should be struck with a single line. One should not scribble over the errors so that it does not hide anything.

 

If a correction is made to the Form I-9, then it is wise to attach a memo to it. The memo should explain why a correction was made on the form in the first place, as per Pacific Daily News.

 

The forms should be kept for at least 3 years after hiring the employee or at least 1 year after the employee has left the job.  Employers may refer to the USCIS website for any questions regarding verification of employees and forms.

 

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If you are looking to Study, Work, Visit, Invest or Migrate to the USA, talk to Y-Axis, the World’s No.1 Immigration & Visa Company.

 

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