What is PERM?

The United States immigration system offers many ways for people to obtain green cards and one of those is through PERM labor certification. To do so, you must have an employer in the country and know what steps to take. Even though PERM allows you to get a green card through your employer, the process still has the potential to become complex. An Illinois immigration lawyer can assist with your case and give you the best chance of success.

Employers must take a few steps when hiring a foreign worker on a permanent basis. One of the first steps many are required to take is to obtain a permanent labor certification from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Employment and Training Administration. The employer must then submit an immigration petition to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The DOL’s Program Electronic Review Management Process may then issue the employer a permanent labor certification.

Obtaining PERM Labor Certification

Employers must undergo two major steps when obtaining PERM certification. These are:

• The labor market test: The employer must show there are not enough available, willing, and qualified workers in the country already that can do the job for the specified wage. This process requires the employer to advertise the position for a minimum of 30 days and review resumes from applicants. It is crucial that employers document these recruitment attempts to show that they have made a reasonable effort.
• Prevailing wage determination: The employer must show that a foreign worker’s employment will not affect the working conditions or wages of other workers in the country in similar positions. A prevailing wage determination form, available through the State Workforce Agency, must be obtained by the employer.                                              

Types of Immigration that Require Labor Certification

The two types of immigration that specifically require labor certification are the EB-2 visa and the EB-3 visa. EB-2 visas are available for individuals with exceptional abilities or advanced degrees. EB-3 visas involve professionals with a bachelor’s degree, skilled workers with over two years of experience, and unskilled workers.

Applications for EB-1, EB-5, and EB-2 visas do not require labor certification if an individual has obtained a National Interest Waiver. Due to the complex rules surrounding PERM certification and the different types of visas available, anyone wishing to apply for an employment-based visa should always speak with an Illinois immigration lawyer first.

Call Our Immigration Lawyers in Illinois Today

The immigration system in the United States is extremely complex, and it is also always changing. At Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC, our knowledgeable Illinois immigration lawyers can provide the advice you need, and guide you through the process of obtaining a visa or a green card to help you remain in the country. Before starting the application process, call us or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation. We will outline your options, identify the one that is best for you, and give you the best chance of success with your case.