What is E-Verify?
E-verify is a web-based system that allows registered employers confirm their employees’ eligibility to work in the U.S. E-Verify electronically matches information provided by the employee on the Form I-9 against records available to the Social Security Administration and the Department of Homeland Security. The E-Verify program is available in all 50 states, District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guan, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Commonwealth of Northern Marianna Islands. While E-Verify is a voluntary program and employers are not required to enroll, it remains the best approach available to electronically confirm employment eligibility.
Exceptions to Being a Voluntary Program
The following are some exceptions to the voluntary use of the E-Verify Program:
- As a condition of federal contracting, Employers with federal contracts or subcontracts that contain the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) E-Verify clause are required to enroll;
- If an Employer’s state has legislation requiring the use of E-Verify, the usage becomes required. For example, some states may necessitate the use of E-Verify as a condition of business licensing; or
- If legally ruled upon, employers may be required to participate in E-Verify.
LENTINI VISAS EXPERIENCE
Ms. Lentini has assisted employers to register and become familiar with the E-Verify system, both electronic and paper formats. She has also advised clients on whether enrolling in E-Verify is the right decision for the business and completed internal employer audits with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).