Form I-9 Handbook Updated to Reflect Final Rule for Eligible F-1 Students

Section 7.4.2. of the Handbook for Employers, M-274, has been updated to reflect a DHS-published final rule (89 FR 10354) that automatically extends the duration of status and any employment authorization granted under 8 CFR 274a.12(c)(3)(i)(B) or (C) for an F-1 student who is the beneficiary of an H-1B petition requesting a change of status. 

The final rule changes the automatic extension end date from Oct. 1 to Apr. 1 of the fiscal year for which the H-1B status is being requested or until the validity start date of the approved petition, whichever is earlier. See 8 CFR 214.2(f)(5)(vi)(A).

See the M-274 for updated Form I-9 guidance and the USCIS announcement for more information on the final rule.