In March, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) deferred the physical presence requirements when reviewing an employee’s documents related to the Form I-9 because of COVID-19 precautions. These accommodations were set to expire on Sept. 19 but have been extended until Nov. 19 because of ongoing precautions.
This provision only applies to employers and workplaces that are operating remotely due to COVID-19. If the employee is physically present, no exceptions are being implemented at this time. Employers are still required to inspect the documents via video, fax, email, etc. and retain them within three business days. Within three business days of resuming normal operations, employees who were onboarded remotely must report to their employer for in-person verification.
For more information, visit https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/whats-new/whats-new.