Can an employer request additional documents beyond those listed on the I-9 form?

Employers are restricted to requesting only the documents specified on the I-9 form for employment verification purposes. The I-9 form lists acceptable documents that an employee can provide to prove their identity and employment authorization. If an employer were to request additional documents beyond those listed, it could be considered a violation of the established guidelines related to the I-9 verification process.

The rationale behind this restriction is to ensure that the verification process is fair and non-discriminatory. By limiting document requests to those specifically outlined on the I-9, the system prevents employers from inadvertently discriminating against certain groups based on factors such as nationality or perceived immigration status. This helps maintain a uniform and just process for all employees regardless of their background.

In situations where there are suspicions of fraud, employers are expected to follow appropriate investigative measures rather than deviating from the I-9 requirements. This preserves the integrity of the employment verification process and protects the rights of the employees.