Physical document inspection not required for remote workers during the pandemic

    The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced it will defer the requirements for employers to physically review I-9 documents in-person with new employees. This change applies only to employers and workplaces that are operating completely remotely.  If there are any employees physically at the workplace, the employer is still required to inspect the employee’s work documents in person. 

    Employers operating remotely who inspect the I-9 documents via fax, email or video conference are instructed to enter “COVID-19” as the reason for the physical inspection delay in the ‘additional information’ field in Section 2 (found under the List B column). 

    Due to COVID-19, the USCIS will consider those who may certify the I-9 form to be ‘any person,’ including a family member.  However, the employer is still responsible to ensure that the person understands the obligation and completes the I-9 form correctly. 

    For further questions, please contact a FosterThomas advisor today:

    Additional information can be found here: https://www.uscis.gov/