Form I-9 and work authorization
U.S. employers must complete Form I-9 for each person they hire, to verify identity and authorization to work. Employees choose which acceptable documents to present. Some employers also use E-Verify.
Can an employer ask for specific documents?
Generally, employees choose from the lists of acceptable documents. USCIS explains the rules.
When is the I-9 completed?
USCIS sets the timing rules on its Form I-9 page.
What is E-Verify?
An online system that compares I-9 information with government records. Some employers must use it; others choose to.
Official sources to check
This page is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and differ by state and city. Last reviewed October 2026. How answers are made
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