Work Authorization

A Work Authorization policy explains how your organization verifies each new hire's identity and eligibility to work in the U.S. (including Form I-9 and any required E-Verify steps), responds to work authorization issues, and applies verification consistently to avoid citizenship or national origin discrimination.

How to Write a Work Authorization Policy

• Start with "why" and introduce the concept.
• State that your organization follows federal and applicable state work authorization and employment eligibility requirements.
• Require completion of Form I-9 for all new hires.
• State whether E-Verify is used, including when it is required by the jurisdictions where you operate.
• Prohibit knowingly hiring individuals who are not authorized to work in the U.S.
• Explain that your organization will take appropriate action if it learns someone is not authorized to work.
• Commit to consistent, non-discriminatory verification practices regardless of citizenship status or national origin.
• Direct employees and managers to raise questions with HR before making assumptions about work authorization.

For advice on writing a Work Authorization policy in a specific jurisdiction, see below.