What if My Company Doesn’t Use E-Verify? Can I Still Verify a New Hire’s ID via Video Conference?
If your company does not use E-Verify, unfortunately, you won’t be able to conduct ID verification for new hires via video conference. According to USCIS guidelines, video conferencing for Form I-9 verification is reserved exclusively for E-Verify users.
However, there are still other options for verifying IDs for remote employees. Here’s what you need to know:
Remote Verification Options for Non-E-Verify Companies
Authorized Representative Verification
If your company isn’t registered with E-Verify and your new hire is working remotely, the alternative is to designate an “authorized representative” to verify their IDs. An authorized representative can be any person you trust to review the new hire’s documents in person on your behalf, such as a notary or another third-party verifier. This individual will then complete and sign Section 2 of the Form I-9.
For detailed guidelines on choosing an authorized representative, you can refer to USCIS resources on authorized representatives.
In-Person Verification
When possible, in-person verification remains the most straightforward and secure method for completing the Form I-9. This can be done at your company’s location or another designated location where both the employee and a company representative can meet.
Why Consider Using E-Verify for Remote Hires?
We highly encourage employers to consider registering with E-Verify, especially if they frequently hire remote employees. Here’s how E-Verify benefits the onboarding process:
Remote Video Verification: By using E-Verify, your company becomes eligible to conduct remote ID verifications via video conference, adding flexibility and convenience for remote hires.
Enhanced Compliance: E-Verify confirms a new hire’s legal authorization to work in the U.S., reducing the risk of errors and non-compliance.
Standardized Process: With E-Verify, you can streamline the Form I-9 process across remote, hybrid, and in-person hires, making onboarding smoother for both HR teams and new employees.
If your company is interested in using E-Verify, you can learn more about the benefits and registration process on the official E-Verify website.
In summary, while E-Verify is not mandatory, it can significantly improve the efficiency and compliance of your hiring processes, especially for remote hires.