Introducing E-Verify+

The upcoming webinar on Introducing E-Verify+ arrives amid the active rollout and expansion of this new USCIS service. E-Verify+ represents the next phase of employment eligibility verification in the United States, building on the existing E-Verify system that has been operational since 1996.

In May 2024, USCIS announced and began a trial launch of E-Verify+, initially with a small group of fewer than 10 employers, to test and refine the platform based on user feedback. By December 31, 2024, participation had grown to over 5,000 enrolled employers, with more than 12,000 employees creating secure accounts and over 14,000 E-Verify+ cases processed.

The timing in early 2026 is significant because E-Verify+ has transitioned from limited pilot to wider availability and ongoing modernization. Throughout 2025, USCIS introduced features tailored to hybrid and remote work environments, including employee opt-out options (launched June 2025) and other conveniences to make the process more accessible and fraud-resistant.

This evolution matters because U.S. employers—particularly those in states requiring E-Verify or federal contractors—face increasing pressure to ensure accurate, efficient verification of new hires' work authorization. The integrated digital approach reduces reliance on physical document examination, minimizes paperwork errors, and enhances detection of identity fraud and unauthorized employment. For employees, it offers greater transparency and control, though mismatches can still trigger delays or further documentation requests.

Broader context includes recent Form I-9 revisions (effective 2025 updates aligning terminology with statutory language) and related E-Verify system tweaks, all part of a multi-year effort to modernize immigration-related employment compliance in response to workforce changes and enforcement priorities.