Business Immigration Insights

DHS announced the expansion of the E-Verify system with regard to new hires presenting US passports and passport cards during the I-9 process identification and employment eligibility process.  This new enhancement allows employers to instantly verify the validity and authenticity of US passport and passport cards, and is intended to strengthen the ability to detect fraudulent documents.  According to DHS, 10% of employees subject to E-Verify present US passports for I-9 purposes.

DHS announced that it is extending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for nationals of Somalia who already hold TPS.  TPS allows qualifying individuals to remain and work lawfully in the United States until conditions in their home countries improve.  The new extension allows qualifying individuals from Somalia to reapply for TPS and work authorization that will be valid until September 17, 2012.  The re-registration period for began on November 2, 2010, and ends on January 3, 2011.  The USCIS will issue new employment authorization documents for those who timely re-register.  The DHS ...