The acronym PERM stands for Program Electronic Review Management. This is a system used in U.S. immigration law that allows employers to apply for permanent labor certification from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). With this certificate, employers can recruit and hire foreign workers to fill job vacancies in the United States.
The Process Involved With PERM
Applying for PERM certification requires employers to establish that there are no available, qualified and willing workers to fill the position available. The process itself is quite extensive and involves:
- Testing the labor market to determine the availability of U.S. workers
- Publishing notice of the job opening in an INS-approved newspaper
- Submitting an attestation to the DOL about the recruitment efforts made
- Filing a labor certification application with the DOL
- Undergoing a review of the application by the DOL
The Benefits of PERM
Applying for and receiving a PERM certification gives employers the ability to sponsor foreign nationals for permanent residence in the United States. This is especially useful for employers seeking to hire workers with certain skills that are in high demand. Additionally, employers may also find relief in knowing that the PERM application process is considerably faster than some of the other available methods for recruiting foreign workers, such as for H-1B visas.
The Drawbacks of PERM
Obtaining a PERM certification is a lengthy and expensive process, and it requires employers to make a substantial effort to demonstrate that they have attempted to hire American workers. Additionally, filing a PERM application does not guarantee approval from the DOL, and the application may be met with a request for additional information or a denial depending on the situation.
Conclusion
PERM is a system used in US immigration law that makes it possible for employers to hire foreign nationals with certain specialized skills. While the application process is extensive and not a guarantee of approval, the benefits can be worthwhile for employers seeking to fill positions with qualified foreign talent.