Last week, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) announced the extension of the guidance
increasing flexibility in I-9 compliance and relaxing in-person verification requirements. This marks the third time the policy, which was established in
late March, has been extended—preceding this action, it had been extended for 30 days on May 19 and another 30 days on June 19. For the moment, the policy is slated to run through August 19.
I-9 Extension and Employers
The extension of the guidance applies to employers operating 100% remotely as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. It also covers newly hired and existing employees who are subject to quarantine or lockdown protocols. Our blawg,
I-9 in the Age of COVID-19, thoroughly explains the details of the original DHS and ICE guidance.
What’s New in the Extension
While the announcement extended the increased I-9 flexibility, it ended ICE’s policy granting extensions to employers who were served notices of inspections (NOIs). Prior to the recent announcement, employers served with NOIs were granted an additional 30 days to respond.
The Extension Going Forward
As previously stated, this extension is set to expire on August 19. Over that time, DHS and ICE will monitor the pandemic and provide updated guidance when necessary. Employers are required to monitor both the DHS and ICE websites for when normal operations will resume. Another website to keep current on is
GoffWilson.com.
GoffWilson Immigration Law
GoffWilson is committed to being a go-to resource for the immigrant community and those who employ and support them. We regularly update the
resources page of our website to ensure easy access to the most recent forms, while our
blawg is a reliable source for keeping informed of the latest in immigration law.
Immigration law is a complex and ever-changing field, which can leave many businesses flustered. If you have questions about the latest extension or any other immigration subject,
contact GoffWilson today. Immigration isn’t just what we do, it’s our passion!