U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issued a prompt regarding a significant update from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). In an effort to enhance security and prevent fraud, USCIS has started producing redesigned employment authorization cards (EADs), also known as Form I-766. However, it’s important to note that USCIS is still using its existing stock of older cards until it runs out. This means that both the new and old versions of the card are in circulation. All previously issued cards remain valid until the expiration date printed on them.

Key Changes in the New EAD Design

The redesigned EADs, which USCIS began issuing on January 30, 2023, are part of a larger initiative to modernize immigration documents. The new design includes a number of advanced security features to make them more difficult to counterfeit. Here are some of the most notable changes:

• Updated Artwork: The new cards feature a different design, including updated artwork of a bald eagle and new tactile printing that is integrated with the design itself.
• Enhanced Security: The cards now have improved optically variable ink and new holographic images on both the front and back.
• New Layout: The data fields for the cardholder’s information have been moved to different locations. A new “layer-reveal” feature is also present with a partial window on the back photo box, which Customs and Border Protection officers will likely appreciate for its added verification benefits.

Guidance for Cardholders and Employers

The simultaneous circulation of both card designs can lead to confusion. Because of this, CBP issued its prompt to clarify the situation for its officers and for the general public. Here’s what individuals and employers need to know:

• Validity of Existing Cards: The introduction of the new card design does not invalidate any previously issued EADs. These older cards are still perfectly valid for verifying identity and employment authorization as long as they have not expired. Customs officials must recognize this validity.
• Form I-9 Compliance: Both the new and old EAD versions are acceptable documents for completing Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification. Employers must accept either card if it appears to be genuine and relates to the employee. They should not ask for additional documents or prefer one version over the other. This guidance was prompted by Customs and Border Protection to ensure universal compliance.
• Automatic Extensions: It is crucial for cardholders and employers to be aware of automatic extensions of validity for certain EAD categories.

This redesign is part of USCIS’s proactive approach to combatting document fraud. By regularly updating the security features on their documents, they aim to ensure the integrity of the U.S. immigration system and protect individuals from the risks associated with fraudulent documents.