E-Verify Requirements in Pennsylvania: 2026 Employer Guide
Pennsylvania requires public employers and state contractors to use E-Verify. Private employers not contracting with government are not mandated.
Mandatory — Public Employers & ContractorsResearched by the I9AuditReady Research Team
·Last Updated: April 2026
Pennsylvania E-Verify at a Glance
- Requirement Level
- Mandatory — Public Employers & Contractors
- Applies To
- Commonwealth agencies and contractors
- Employee Threshold
- All employers
- Key Statute
- Exec. Order 2012-03 (Pennsylvania)
- Effective Date
- January 1, 2013
Who Must Use E-Verify in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania requires E-Verify for public employers and government contractors.
Pennsylvania requires public employers and state contractors to use E-Verify. Private employers not contracting with government are not mandated.
Key Facts: E-Verify in Pennsylvania
- Pennsylvania requires Commonwealth agencies and their contractors to use E-Verify under Executive Order 2012-03, effective January 1, 2013.
- Pennsylvania state contractors must certify E-Verify participation during the contract bidding process.
- Pennsylvania does not impose E-Verify requirements on private employers not engaged in Commonwealth contracting.
Penalties for Non-Compliance in Pennsylvania
State contractors who fail to comply may be ineligible for state contract awards.
Note: Federal I-9 penalties apply in addition to any state E-Verify penalties. Consulting employment counsel is advisable before responding to any state or federal enforcement action.
Exceptions and Exemptions
- Private employers not contracting with state government
Pennsylvania E-Verify: Frequently Asked Questions
Does Pennsylvania require E-Verify for private employers?
No. Pennsylvania's E-Verify requirement under Executive Order 2012-03 applies to Commonwealth agencies and their contractors. Private employers without state contracts are not required to use E-Verify.
When did Pennsylvania's E-Verify requirement start?
Pennsylvania's E-Verify requirement for Commonwealth agencies and contractors took effect January 1, 2013 under Executive Order 2012-03.
What do Pennsylvania state contractors need to do?
Pennsylvania Commonwealth contractors must enroll in E-Verify, use it for new employees on state contracts, and certify compliance. The certification requirement extends to subcontractors.
Do Pennsylvania private employers still need to complete I-9 forms?
Yes. All Pennsylvania employers must complete Form I-9 for every new hire under federal law. This requirement is independent of state E-Verify policy.
Nearby State Requirements
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