A Comprehensive Look at the PERM Process for Employment-Based Immigration

The PERM process is a critical step in the employment-based immigration journey as it ensures that US employers have made a good faith effort to recruit qualified US workers before sponsoring a foreign worker for permanent residency. Navigating the PERM process can be complex and time-consuming.

Employment-based immigration is an important way for US companies to recruit highly skilled foreign workers to fill certain job openings. However, the US government has established strict requirements to ensure that US workers are not displaced by foreign workers. The PERM process is a key component of these requirements, as it certifies that there are no qualified US workers available for a certain job before an employer can sponsor a foreign worker for permanent residency.

It’s crucial for business owners and HR professionals to remain informed about the most recent developments and modifications when it comes to PERM processing. In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive overview which includes its stages, timeline, and approval criteria. We will also discuss the next steps after PERM approval, including the I-140 petition, and the I-485 application.

What is the PERM Process in Immigration? 

The PERM process is a process used by the US Department of Labor (DOL) to certify that there are no qualified US workers available for a specific job before an employer can sponsor a foreign worker for permanent residency. The PERM process requires the employer to advertise the job opening and to conduct a recruitment process to identify qualified US workers. If no qualified US workers are found, the employer can file a PERM application with the DOL.

Stages of the PERM Process and Timeline 

The PERM process consists of multiple stages including recruitment and filing of the PERM application. The recruitment stage involves advertising the job opening in various media outlets and conducting a recruitment process to identify qualified US workers. The filing stage involves submitting the PERM application to the DOL. The timeline for the PERM process varies depending on several factors such as, the complexity of the job and the volume of applications being processed by the DOL. Generally, the PERM process takes between six months to a year to complete.

Process for PERM Approval

The criteria DOL uses to approve or deny a PERM application includes verifying that the employer has conducted a good faith recruitment effort to identify qualified US workers, that the foreign worker meets the minimum qualifications for the job, and that the foreign worker will be paid the prevailing wage for the job. If the PERM application is approved, the employer can move on to the next steps of the employment-based immigration process.

I-140 Petition and I-485 Application 

After the PERM application is approved, the employer can file an I-140 petition with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to sponsor the foreign worker for an immigrant visa. The I-140 petition must demonstrate that the foreign worker meets the specific requirements for the job and that the employer has the ability to pay the offered wage. If the I-140 petition is approved, the foreign worker can file an I-485 application to adjust their status to permanent residency. In some cases, the I-140 petition can be filed concurrently with the I-485 application. The I-485 application must demonstrate that the foreign worker is admissible to the US and is not subject to any grounds of inadmissibility.

Again, the PERM process is a critical step in the employment-based immigration journey, as it ensures that US employers have made a good faith effort to recruit qualified US workers before sponsoring a foreign worker for permanent residency. By understanding the stages, timeline, and approval criteria of this process, US employers and foreign workers can increase their chances of success.

Maximizing Your Chances of Success with Personalized Representation

For businesses, navigating the intricacies of the PERM process can prove to be difficult, especially due to the continuously evolving nature of immigration laws and regulations. Contacting an experienced immigration attorney can ensure a successful application and minimize the possibility of setbacks, audits, or rejections.

Grey Law Immigration is a renowned legal firm that specializes in business visas and employment-based immigration. Our experienced team of immigration professionals provides personalized support throughout the entire PERM process, ensuring a hassle-free immigration experience for both your business and employees. We work closely with our clients to comprehend their unique requirements and develop customized solutions to help them achieve their goals.

Seeking personalized immigration legal support from a reputable law firm like Grey Law Immigration can aid businesses in navigating the complicated PERM process and improving their chances of success. Contact Grey Immigration Law today to discover how our team can enhance your immigration journey.