August 15, 2008
New Passport Card OK for Employment Eligibility Verification
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services clarified recently that the new U.S. Passport Card may be used in the Employment Eligibility Verification form (I-9) process.

In July, the Departments of State and Homeland Security began producing the new passport card. The new card provides a less expensive and more portable alternative to the traditional passport book and will expedite document processing at United States land and sea ports-of-entry for U.S. citizens traveling to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. The card may not be used to travel by air.

While the new card is more limited in its uses for international travel, it is a valid passport that attests to the U.S. citizenship and identity of the bearer. Accordingly, the card may be used for the Form I-9 process and can also be accepted by employers participating in the E-Verify program.

The passport card is considered a "List A" document that may be presented by newly hired employees during the employment eligibility verification process to show work authorized status. "List A" documents are those used by employees to prove both identity and work authorization when completing the Form I-9.

The card has the same period of validity as a passport book: 10 years for an adult, five for children 15 and younger.

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