E-Verify NextGen: What Employers Need to Know about Forthcoming E-Verify & Form I-9 Changes

E-Verify NextGen promises to integrate the Form I-9 process with E-Verify. Under this new system, new hires will take on a more active role by electronically entering their biographic information, citizenship or immigration status, and identity documents directly into the E-Verify system via their secure myE-Verify accounts. This shift aims to enhance efficiency and reduce the occurrence of data entry errors often associated with manual input.

Employee-led Resolution:

E-Verify NextGen introduces a notable shift in responsibility for resolving mismatches.. Under this system, employees gain the ability to independently manage their verification status, reducing the reliance on employers in case of discrepancies.

Portability of Verification Status:

Another significant development introduced by E-Verify NextGen is the portability of verification status. Unlike the current system, which requires the initiation of a new Form I-9 and E-Verify case with each job change, NextGen enables employees to carry their verification status seamlessly between employers. This feature aims to reduce redundancy and simplify transitions within the workforce.

Why Employers Still Need a Compliant Electronic I-9 System:

While E-Verify NextGen sets out to make the process more seamless for all parties, ultimately employers are held responsible for their onboarding compliance. Until that responsibility shifts, employers are best served by compliant electronic I-9 systems that automate tasks such as:

• Offers flexible remote verification options 
• Automatically sends out reminders and follow-up notification to the employer and the employee regarding non-compliance ( receipt,follow-up, Work Authorization Expirations, etc.
• Manages reverifications
• Rectifying errors 
• Allows for corrections 
• Stores I-9 forms in audit-friendly formats
• Managing form purges