The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently released a new version of Form I-9 (Employment Eligibility Verification), bringing the total number of valid editions to three. While the updates are minor, they’re still important to be aware of.

The newest edition is dated 01/20/25 and is valid through 05/31/2027. The good news? If you’re already using one of the approved versions, there’s no immediate action required. The current valid editions are listed below:

  • 01/20/25 edition – Expires 05/31/2027
  • 08/01/23 edition – Expires 05/31/2027
  • 08/01/23 edition – Expires 07/31/2026 (Note: If you’re using this version, be sure to update to a newer edition by July 31, 2026)

So, What’s Different?

The updates to Form I-9 are minimal and mainly reflect updated legal language. Here’s a quick overview of what’s new:

  • Section 1 Update: The fourth checkbox now reads “An alien authorized to work” instead of “A noncitizen authorized to work.”
  • List B Documents: Two documents used for identity verification have updated descriptions.
  • Instructions: The form instructions now include revised legal terms and an updated privacy notice.

These changes were made to simplify the language and keep terminology consistent across the form and related documentation.

E-Verify and E-Verify+ Updates

Beginning April 3, 2025, both E-Verify and E-Verify+ will start using the updated term “An alien authorized to work” when creating new cases. This change applies even if an employee completed an older version of Form I-9 that still uses the phrase “A noncitizen authorized to work.”

Regardless of which edition of the form you’re using, employers will need to select the updated wording in E-Verify to remain compliant and ensure consistency across documentation.

Bottom Line

If you’re currently using one of the valid editions of Form I-9, there’s no need to make any immediate changes. That said, it’s essential that your team is aware of the updated terminology, understands which editions are still acceptable, and knows how to correctly enter employee status in E-Verify going forward.

Understanding I-9 compliance can be challenging, but at UniqueHR, we make complex processes like these easier to manage. If your business could use guidance on how to navigate compliance or other HR responsibilities, give us a call at 800.824.8367 to schedule a free consultation.