PERM (PROGRAM ELECTRONIC REVIEW MANAGEMENT)

he Program for Electronic Review Management (PERM) is the initial labor certification step required for foreign nationals seeking an employment-based immigrant visa (Green Card). Submitted by the employer to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), this application certifies that there are no qualified, willing, and available U.S. workers for the position, ensuring that the hiring of a foreign national does not adversely affect local wages or working conditions.

Key Principles & Employer Obligations

The sponsoring employer—not the employee—files the PERM application. Candidates may remain outside the U.S. or work for another employer while the application processes. However, the intention to work permanently for the sponsoring employer must exist upon approval, though actual employment with the sponsor is required only after the foreign national physically receives the Green Card. Once the DOL approves the PERM, the employer has 180 days to file Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), which verifies that the candidate meets the requisite education, training, and experience requirements.

Sample Documents & Legal Resources

The provided sample reflects a standard PERM application designed to initiate the employment-based immigration process. Our comprehensive legal library offers additional reference materials across various immigration categories, including Nonimmigrant Visas (H-1B Specialty Occupation, L-1A Intracompany Transferee, O-1 Extraordinary Ability, and B-2 Visitor) as well as Immigrant Visas & Waivers (Family-based preference petitions, I-140 applications, Humanitarian Reinstatement requests, and work authorization filings).

For individualized guidance regarding your immigration needs, contact our legal team at 562-495-0554 to schedule a consultation.