After gathering feedback and extensive testing, USCIS has unveiled an updated and modernized E-Verify system to improve the user experience, efficiency, and reduce errors.

Enhanced features include:

• Expanded helper text and visuals;

• Real-time feedback on errors;

• Auto-scroll feature that takes the user to the next section;

• Streamlined case creation and case closure;

• Modernization to reduce Tentative Nonconfirmations (TNCs)

• A personalized “Are You Sure?” alert;

• Combined DHS and SSA TNCs; and

• Improved photo-matching features with the option to using photos from mobile devices.

The enhancements can be found on the E-Verify Enhancements April 2018 webpage.

The expansion of E-Verify is an important feature of President Donald Trump’s overall immigration plan. It is one of the changes that he believes would help to eliminate the jobs magnet that brings illegal workers to the United States and ultimately harms U.S. workers. In his proposed budget, Trump requested $23 million to expand E-Verify and make it mandatory nationwide.  The 2018 Omnibus budget, however, simply extended the E-Verify program until the end of the fiscal year.

A better user experience could add to the support for mandatory E-Verify use. In a survey of HR practitioners conducted by SHRM in late 2016, 92 percent would support a mandatory E-Verify system if system problems were addressed, including:

• Strong safe harbor protection of good faith use of the system;

• Better photo-matching tools to authenticate identify; and

• Elimination of the Form I-9.