If you are already required to use E-Verify, you have probably heard there have been some recent adjustments and new changes around the corner. Below, we have compiled some of the most significant changes for employers:
- January 2025: The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a rule (89 FR 101208), which extended the automatic renewal period for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for certain applicants who have filed Form I-765 on time. This change allowed extensions to last up to 540 days after the expiration date, up from the previous 180-day limit.
- April 2025: Updates to citizenship status terminology to match the 01/20/25 Form I-9 editions.
- May 2025: E-Verify announced that all browser-based E-Verify users would be required to transition to Login.gov for account access.
- June 2025: Introduction of the Status Change Report for revoked EADs to help employers identify if E-Verify cases were created with an EAD that has been revoked by DHS.
- July 2025: Addition of the “Revoked Document Number” field to the Status Change Report.
- Throughout 2025: Multiple changes and additions to E-Verify+
In addition to the routine automatic annual disposal of E-Verify records older than 10 years and additional adjustments to the automatic renewal period for EADs, 2026 brings a significant software change with the release of ICA v32.
2026 E-Verify ICA v32 draft release
On March 16, 2026, the E-Verify website announced the release of ICA v32. On March 31st, a draft version was released for external testing. While the initial draft version of ICA v32 mostly pertains to web developers and employer agents, it will affect how employers use E-Verify once launched in June 2026. The soft launch starting in March gives web service developers access to update applications, allowing E-Verify time for feedback before the full launch.
Developer and employer agent-specific updates in ICA v32 draft:
- PDF Consolidation: Consolidates multiple PDF documents into a single web-based ICA resource.
- Expanded field requirements: Includes expanded field requirements and helper text for case creation.
- Adds case payload collections: Software name, hiring site location, and remote document examination indicator.
- Optional client company accounts: Introduces optional client company account enrollment for employer agents using E-Verify web services.
Web services developers will have six months to update their software after the final ICA v32 is published and must pass automated acceptance testing.
How this affects employers
Starting in June 2026, E-Verify will fully implement ICA v32 and expand monitoring tools. Below is a quick overview of what employers can expect on their end once ICA v32 is fully implemented:
- Employer interface updates: ICA v32 brings all guidance together in one web-based resource, streamlining access and making it simpler for employers to find what they need.
- Optional client company account enrollment (for employer agents): Employer agents will be able to automate client company account setup, making it easier to manage multiple employer accounts and reduce manual steps.
- Added case payload collections: New fields such as software name, hiring site location, and remote document examination will help support compliance and system tracking; employers will see these indirectly when creating and submitting cases.
ICA v32 marks one of the most significant modernization efforts in recent years. If you are interested in learning more about the release of ICA v32 or have program and policy questions, take a closer look here.
This content is for informational purposes only and shall not constitute legal opinion or advice. Consult your legal counsel to ensure compliance.