Fast Facts Friday – PERM Labor Certification

The PERM Labor Certification is a crucial step in many employment-based green card cases.  While it may seem like just another form, it is actually one of the most detailed and time-sensitive parts of the immigration process.

1. What It Is

PERM (Program Electronic Review Management) is the process by which the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) certifies that:

• There are no qualified U.S. workers available for the job being offered, and
• Hiring a foreign national will not negatively impact wages and working conditions of U.S. workers.

2. Who Needs It

Most EB-2 and EB-3 green card cases require a PERM Labor Certification, unless an exception like the National Interest Waiver applies.

3. Recruitment Is Mandatory

Employers must prove they tried to recruit U.S. workers before sponsoring a foreign employee.

This includes:

• Job postings with the state workforce agency
• Newspaper ads
• Internal postings
• In some cases, additional recruitment efforts such as online listings or campus outreach

4. Timing Matters

PERM is often the longest step in the green card process.  Between recruitment, prevailing wage determinations, and government review, cases can take several months to more than a year.

5. Accuracy Is Key

A small mistake in the PERM process — such as a typo in the job ad or missed recruitment requirement — can lead to denial and force an employer to start over.

Why This Matters

For employers and foreign professionals, PERM is not just paperwork — it is the foundation of an entire green card case.  Without careful planning and legal guidance, small errors can cause major delays.

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📩 Contact us at [email protected] for help preparing a compliant and effective PERM case.

If you have questions about your visa status or if you are an employer exploring immigration options, we are here to help.  At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal landscapes.
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The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice.  To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected].