What is essential for employers to avoid discrimination during the I-9 hiring process?

To avoid discrimination during the I-9 hiring process, it is crucial for employers to ensure that all documents are verified, regardless of nationality. This practice upholds the principle of treating all employees and applicants equally, as per U.S. immigration laws. Employers must not favor or discriminate against individuals based on their national origin or citizenship when completing the I-9 form, which is required to verify their identity and employment eligibility.

By consistently verifying documents from all employees, employers can demonstrate a commitment to fairness and compliance with anti-discrimination laws. This approach helps establish a uniform process that applies equally to everyone, thus minimizing the potential for bias or discrimination during the hiring process and promoting a diverse workplace.

The other options, while beneficial in their own right, do not directly address the specific requirement to avoid discrimination in document verification essential to the I-9 process. Using standard hiring forms, conducting thorough interviews, or implementing employee referral programs do not inherently ensure that discrimination is avoided within the scope of verifying employment eligibility.