On August 8, 2008, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) made an announcement that the new U.S. Passport Card may be used in the Form I-9 process.
Last month, the Departments of State and Homeland Security announced that the new passport card was in full production. The new card provides a less expensive and more portable alternative to the traditional passport book, and will expedite document processing at United States land and sea ports-of-entry for U.S. citizens traveling to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
The new card cannot be used for international air travel, but it is a valid passport that attests to the U.S. citizenship and identity of the bearer. The card may be used for the Form I-9 process and can also be accepted by employers participating in the E-Verify program.
The passport card is considered a “List A” document that may be presented by newly hired employees during the employment eligibility verification process to show work authorized status. “List A” documents are those used by employees to prove both identity and work authorization when completing the Form I-9.
Did you know…
- If you are an employer, you must retain Form I-9 for three years after the date employment begins or one year after the date the person’s employment is terminated, whichever is later.
- Failure to provide Form I-9s for inspection is a violation of the employer sanctions laws and could
result in the imposition of civil money penalties.
- That an employer can be fined up to $3,000 or imprisoned up to 6 months for engaging in a pattern or practice of knowingly hiring and continuing to employ unauthorized aliens.
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