U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently announced that it will soon delete E-Verify records that are more than 10 years old. Employers have until January 8, 2027, to download those records before they are destroyed. The order applies to any E-Verify cases that were last updated on or before December 31, 2016.
USCIS recommends downloading the Historical Records Report to capture information about the soon-to-be-deleted E-Verify cases. The agency also reminds employers to either record the E-Verify case verification number on each corresponding Form I-9, or else attach a copy of the E-Verify case details page. Instructions and further information are available from the E-Verify Records Retention and Disposal Fact Sheet and the instructions for downloading the Historical Records Report.
Tips: E-Verify is an online government database that allows employers to check the identity and employment eligibility of employees, as part of the Form I-9 process. Using E-Verify is optional except in Arizona and for certain federal contractors. See our Legal Guide, E-Verify for Federal Contractors.
