Alex Denne
Growth @ Genie AI | Introduction to Contracts @ UCL Faculty of Laws | Serial Founder

Navigating Perm Labor Certification Easily with a Free Toolkit & Templates

9 Jun 2023
27 min
Text Link

Note: Links to our free templates are at the bottom of this long guide.
Also note: This is not legal advice

Introduction

Navigating the permanent labor certification process can be a complex and often bewildering endeavor for employers in the United States. By obtaining legal authorization from the Department of Labor to hire foreign workers for positions not otherwise available to U.S. citizens, businesses can ensure their operations remain compliant with the law, while employees are afforded fair opportunities and treatment when competing for open positions. However, having access to the right resources and support is key when attempting to successfully complete this process.

The Genie AI team understand this well and are passionate about helping employers and employees alike navigate this labyrinthine legal landscape by providing them with a free toolkit of perm labor certification templates. These resources offer step-by-step guidance that not only explain the complexities of the process but also ensure they’re following all relevant regulations and procedures required by law - eliminating any potential pitfalls along the way.

With millions of datapoints teaching Genie’s AI what a market-standard perm labor certification looks like, anyone looking to draft or customize high quality documents no longer needs an expert lawyer - they just need our simple template library! And there’s no need for an account either; we just want to help you get on with your business as soon as possible! Read on below for more information about our free step-by-step guidance and access our template library today!

Definitions

Permanent Labor Certification: A process for employers to obtain certified foreign workers to fill job openings in the US.
Application: A form employers must fill out with the US Department of Labor to demonstrate that there are no qualified and available US workers to fill the job opening and that the foreign worker’s wages will not adversely affect the wages of other US workers.
Labor Market: The conditions of the job market, including the availability of jobs and the wages employers can offer.
Regulations and Guidelines: Rules and standards set by the US Department of Labor that must be followed.
Recruitment Process: The process of advertising the job opening, interviewing candidates, and selecting the most qualified candidate.
Toolkit: A collection of documents and templates that can help employers prepare a successful application.
Best Practices: Strategies that employers can use to manage the Permanent Labor Certification process.

Contents

  1. Overview of the Permanent Labor Certification Process
  2. Common Questions and Answers
  3. Tips for Preparing a Successful Application
  4. Research the position you are hiring for
  5. Ensure that the job advertisement meets the requirements of the labor market
  6. Prepare the application accurately and completely
  7. Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining Permanent Labor Certification
  8. Familiarize yourself with the different types of labor certification
  9. Gather the necessary documents
  10. Submit the application to the Department of Labor
  11. Participate in the recruitment process
  12. Respond to requests for additional information
  13. Obtain the labor certification
  14. Toolkit and Templates to Help with the Process
  15. Document templates for filing the application
  16. Sample job description templates
  17. Sample job advertisements
  18. Sample recruitment materials
  19. Sample letters and forms
  20. Best Practices for Managing the Permanent Labor Certification Process
  21. Understand the labor market requirements
  22. Prepare a comprehensive and accurate application
  23. Follow the recruitment process guidelines
  24. Respond promptly to requests for additional information
  25. Maintain records of all documents and correspondence
  26. Resources to Help with Permanent Labor Certification
  27. Professional legal services
  28. Online resources such as tutorials and webinars
  29. Publications and research papers
  30. Online discussion forums and support groups
  31. Conclusion: Summary of the Process and Tips for Success
  32. Summarize the steps of the process
  33. Provide tips for preparing a successful application
  34. Emphasize the importance of following all guidelines and regulations

Get started

Overview of the Permanent Labor Certification Process

  • Understand the purpose of the permanent labor certification process and the timeline of events
  • Identify the roles of the employer and the employee in the process
  • Learn the five steps of the certification process: recruitment, application, Department of Labor review, certification, and post-certification
  • Acquire the necessary forms and documents for each step of the process
  • Verify that the employer and employee meet all requirements for the certification process

Once you have acquired the necessary forms and documents and verified that the employer and employee meet all requirements for the certification process, you can check this off your list and move on to the next step.

Common Questions and Answers

  • Get familiar with the common questions associated with the permanent labor certification process, such as the types of jobs available, the requirements for the job, and the nature of the paperwork associated with the process.
  • Understand the application timeline and procedures, such as the recruitment process, the filing of the application, and the processing time.
  • Learn how to obtain the necessary documents and other information required for the permanent labor certification process.
  • Familiarize yourself with the potential costs associated with the process and how to pay them.
  • Know the roles and responsibilities of the employer and the employee during the process.
  • Understand the different types of labor certifications available.

You’ll know you can check this off your list and move on to the next step when you can answer all of the above questions and have a clear understanding of the permanent labor certification process.

Tips for Preparing a Successful Application

  • Develop a complete job description that accurately reflects the job duties and minimum requirements
  • Ensure the position is correctly classified as either a professional or nonprofessional occupation
  • Research prevailing wage rates and document the rate offered to the foreign national
  • Understand the labor market to ensure that hiring a foreign national will not adversely affect the wages and working conditions of similarly employed U.S. workers
  • Obtain an approved Labor Certification from the U.S. Department of Labor
  • Check for any state-specific requirements that may apply to the job offer
  • When all of these steps have been completed, you can move on to the next step.

Research the position you are hiring for

  • Read and understand the job description to ensure that it accurately reflects the position you are hiring for
  • Identify the appropriate wage rate, job duties, and responsibilities of the job
  • Research the labor market and the job market to identify the prevailing wage rate, working conditions, and qualifications necessary to perform the job
  • Confirm that the job advertisement meets the requirements of the labor market
  • Determine the local job market and identify any specific requirements needed to satisfy the labor certifications
  • Check to make sure that the job description and advertisement meets the requirements of the labor certification program
  • Ensure that the job advertisement is free from any discriminatory language

You can check this off your list and move on to the next step when you have completed the above steps and ensured that the job advertisement meets the requirements of the labor market.

Ensure that the job advertisement meets the requirements of the labor market

  • Review the job requirements, duties, and salary of the position to make sure it meets the labor market standards
  • Research the labor market to ensure that the job details are in line with the market standards
  • Make sure to include the minimum qualifications, including any necessary education and experience, in the job advertisement
  • Use relevant keywords in the job advertisement that are related to the position
  • Check the job advertisement against the labor market to make sure that it is not over or underpaying for the position
  • Once you have ensured that the job advertisement meets the labor market requirements, you can move on to the next step of preparing the application accurately and completely.

Prepare the application accurately and completely

• Verify that all information in the application is accurate and complete.
• Ensure the job duties and requirements meet the criteria for the job listed on the labor certification application.
• Provide all necessary documents (including resumes, job descriptions, and employer statements) to the labor certifying officer.
• Make sure all documents are signed and dated.
• Obtain the employer’s labor condition application (LCA) form and fill it in correctly.
• Submit a copy of the application and supporting documents to the National Processing Center.

You can check this step off your list when you have verified all necessary documents are present, signed, and complete.

Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining Permanent Labor Certification

  • Read up on the different types of labor certification available and determine which type is best for your situation
  • Ensure you have all the necessary supporting documents that are required for the specific type of labor certification you have chosen
  • Submit the completed application forms to the relevant government agencies or other organizations (such as the Department of Labor)
  • Follow up with the government agency or organization to ensure the application has been received and is being processed
  • Once you have received confirmation that the application has been accepted, you can move on to the next step.

Familiarize yourself with the different types of labor certification

  • Understand the three types of labor certification: PERM, H-1B and L-1
  • Familiarize yourself with the regulations and requirements for each type of certification
  • Research the types of positions each type of certification is applicable for
  • Research the differences between each type of certification in terms of cost, duration, and restrictions
  • When you feel comfortable with the different types of labor certification and understand what is applicable for your situation, you can move on to the next step.

Gather the necessary documents

  • Review the list of documents required to complete the labor certification application.
  • Gather all necessary documents, such as job description, proof of salary, proof of recruitment efforts, and other evidence needed to support the labor certification application.
  • Once you have all the necessary documents, you can proceed to the next step of submitting the application to the Department of Labor.

Submit the application to the Department of Labor

  • Gather all necessary documents, including the ETA Form 9089, the recruitment report, and all supporting documents
  • File the complete application with the Department of Labor, submitting the documents via mail, email, or fax
  • Receive a confirmation from the Department of Labor that the application was received
  • Check your status online or contact the National Processing Center for updates
  • When you receive a Notice of Acceptance from the Department of Labor, you will know that the application has been approved and you can move on to the next step.

Participate in the recruitment process

  • Contact potential applicants and conduct interviews with them to assess their qualifications for the job.
  • Check their qualifications against the minimum requirements specified in the labor certification application.
  • Keep detailed records of the recruitment process, including records of interviews, job postings, and applications.
  • Ensure that the recruitment process is conducted in a fair and non-discriminatory manner.
  • When you have found a suitable candidate, you can check off this step and move on to the next step in the labor certification process.

Respond to requests for additional information

  • Carefully read all requests for additional information (RFI) from the Department of Labor (DOL).
  • Make sure to provide complete responses with all necessary documentation.
  • If an RFI is incomplete, contact the DOL to discuss the missing information.
  • If the DOL requests additional documents or clarifications, promptly provide the requested items.
  • When you have submitted all the required documents and information, the DOL will review your submission.
  • You’ll know you can move on to obtaining the labor certification when you receive a letter from the DOL stating that your RFI has been approved.

Obtain the labor certification

  • Identify a job opportunity that meets the labor certification requirements
  • Gather the necessary documentation, such as the job description, salary information, and proof of recruitment efforts
  • Submit the labor certification application to the Department of Labor (DOL)
  • Monitor the DOL website for any requests for additional information
  • Once you have received the approved labor certification, you can move on to the next step in the process.

Toolkit and Templates to Help with the Process

  • Assemble a toolkit of all the documents you will need to complete the application process. This should include, but not be limited to, the job description, the prevailing wage survey, and the ETA Form 9089.
  • Download and utilize templates for each document that is part of the Perm labor certification. These are available for free on the internet.
  • Utilize a template for the job advertisement. This should include where and how the job will be advertised, the job summary, and the job duties.
  • When you have all the required documents and templates ready, you can move on to the next step of filing the application.

Document templates for filing the application

  • Download the document templates from the free toolkit.
  • Make sure you have all the necessary documents for the application, such as employer documents, job description, wage rate, job requirements, and more.
  • Fill out the documents with the required information, and make sure to include any details that may be necessary.
  • Once all the documents are completed, you can move on to the next step.

Sample job description templates

  • Create a job description template for the position you are looking to fill
  • Include details such as job title, duties and responsibilities of the job, and required qualifications
  • Make sure the job description outlines the minimum qualifications and requirements of the position
  • Tailor the job description to your specific needs
  • When you are finished creating your job description template, you can check this step off your list and move onto the next step.

Sample job advertisements

  • Gather all relevant information about the job you’re offering, such as job requirements, job duties, and salary
  • Draft a job advertisement that complies with the Department of Labor’s guidelines for PERM labor certification
  • Make sure to include all the required information in the advertisement
  • Post the job advertisement in multiple media outlets, including newspapers, job boards, and trade journals
  • Keep a record of the dates each advertisement was posted
  • Make sure to keep the advertisement open for 30 days
  • When you’ve completed these steps, you can check them off your list and move on to creating recruitment materials for the job.

Sample recruitment materials

  • Determine the best recruitment sources for your job opening
  • Compile a list of recruitment sources to use for your job posting
  • Post your job opening on the determined recruitment sources
  • Track response rate to the job posting
  • Collect resumes from the job posting
  • Screen resumes for qualified applicants
  • Interview qualified applicants
  • Make a job offer to the selected candidate

Once you have completed all of the above steps, you can check this off your list and move on to the next step.

Sample letters and forms

  • Download the free toolkit and templates to help you navigate the process of completing the labor certification
  • Follow the instructions for completing the forms, including the Form I-140, Form ETA-9089, and other documents required for filing
  • Carefully review the form instructions and create your own letters as needed
  • Once you have completed all the forms and letters, you can move on to the next step in the process.

Best Practices for Managing the Permanent Labor Certification Process

  • Developing a detailed timeline of the labor certification process and tracking key milestones
  • Developing and maintaining a documented checklist of all labor certification process requirements
  • Creating a tracking system to capture and organize all information related to the labor certification process
  • Setting up a process for collecting and tracking all required documents
  • Maintaining a secure filing system for all labor certification related documents
  • Ensuring compliance with all applicable labor certification laws
  • Communicating with all relevant stakeholders throughout the labor certification process

Once you have developed a timeline, checklist, tracking system, filing system, and communicated with all relevant stakeholders, you can move on to the next step: understanding the labor market requirements.

Understand the labor market requirements

  • Research the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) regulations and requirements for your labor certification
  • Confirm that the position requires a permanent labor certification
  • Identify the appropriate Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code for the position
  • Research the applicable Prevailing Wage Determination (PWD) and confirm it meets the labor market requirements
  • Confirm that the position meets the educational and experience requirements of the labor market
  • Confirm the job duties and requirements meet the job duties and requirements of the SOC code
  • Confirm that the position is not subject to any collective bargaining agreement
  • Confirm that the position is not on the list of occupations ineligible for labor certification

You can check this off your list and move on to the next step when you have conducted all of the research and confirmed that all of the requirements for the labor market have been met.

Prepare a comprehensive and accurate application

  • Gather information about the job such as duties and responsibilities, job title, wages, working hours, and qualifications
  • Use the information to accurately complete the Application for Permanent Employment Certification (Eta Form 9089)
  • Check the accuracy of the information on the Eta Form 9089 to ensure that it is consistent with the job requirements
  • Submit the completed Eta Form 9089, along with all other required documents, to the Department of Labor

Once the Eta Form 9089 and other documents have been submitted and are verified as complete, you can move on to the next step in the labor certification process.

Follow the recruitment process guidelines

  • Follow the recruitment process guidelines as given by the Department of Labor (DOL).
  • Make sure your job advertisement meets the requirements of the DOL.
  • The advertisement should be posted in two Sunday editions of a newspaper in the area of intended employment.
  • The advertisement should also be posted on the company website and on the state workforce agency website (if applicable).
  • If the job is a professional position, the advertisement should be posted on the national professional journal.
  • Be sure to maintain records of all recruitment efforts.
  • When all recruitment efforts have been completed, you will be able to complete this step and move on to the next step.

Respond promptly to requests for additional information

  • Check emails regularly for inquiries from the Department of Labor (DOL)
  • Prioritize DOL emails and address any new requests quickly
  • Answer any follow-up questions from the DOL with detailed, accurate information
  • Upload any requested documents to the DOL portal as soon as possible
  • Keep copies of all documents and correspondence exchanged with the DOL
  • You can check this step off your list when you have received confirmation from the DOL that they have all the information they need to move forward with your application.

Maintain records of all documents and correspondence

  • Obtain copies of all documents associated with the labor certification process
  • Create a file where all documents and records related to the application are stored
  • Save copies of all emails and letters sent to and received from the U.S. Department of Labor
  • Update your records regularly
  • When you have all the documents and records in one place, you can check this step off your list and move on to the next step.

Resources to Help with Permanent Labor Certification

  • Research the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) and their resources for permanent labor certification
  • Research online services and agencies that provide legal assistance for completing the permanent labor certification process
  • Look for a free toolkit and templates available to help with the process
  • Check to see if the toolkit includes resources such as forms, instructions, and a step-by-step guide
  • Utilize the resources you find to help you complete the labor certification process

Once you have identified the resources that are available to you, you can then move on to the next step of the process.

Professional legal services

  • Obtain legal advice from an experienced and knowledgeable attorney in the particular field of law related to the labor certification application.
  • Ensure that all legal documentation is in compliance with the laws and regulations related to the labor certification process.
  • Make sure the attorney is familiar with the Department of Labor’s requirements for filing a labor certification application.
  • Ensure that the attorney is aware of all deadlines associated with the labor certification process, including the filing of the labor certification application and the responding to any requests for additional information from the Department of Labor.
  • Ensure that the attorney is familiar with the requirements of the particular job position that is the subject of the labor certification application, including the job duties and job requirements.
  • Make sure the attorney is familiar with the prevailing wage determination process and any other wage related issues associated with the labor certification application.
  • When all steps have been completed and the labor certification application is ready to be filed, the attorney should provide a consultation to review the application and make any necessary corrections or revisions.

You’ll know you can check this off your list and move on to the next step when the labor certification application has been reviewed and is ready to be filed.

Online resources such as tutorials and webinars

  • Check out the official USCIS website for tutorials and webinars on labor certification.
  • Utilize online resources provided by the Department of Labor (DOL) to gain an understanding of the labor certification process.
  • Watch YouTube tutorials and webinars on the labor certification process.
  • When you have an understanding of the labor certification process, you can check this off your list and move on to the next step.

Publications and research papers

  • Research relevant publications and papers to gain more insights into the Perm Labor Certification process.
  • Look for publications and papers that focus on the requirements and best practices for the Perm Labor Certification process.
  • Compare different publications and papers to gain a comprehensive understanding of the process.
  • Cross-check the information from the publications and papers with the other resources provided in the toolkit.
  • Once you feel confident in your understanding of the Perm Labor Certification process, you can move on to the next step.

Online discussion forums and support groups

  • Join or follow an online discussion forum or support group: These are usually hosted on social media, discussion boards, and other platforms.
  • Participate in conversations and ask questions: Ask questions related to the process, seek advice from experienced users and experts, and get feedback from the community.
  • Research answers to common questions: Look through the archives to find out what others have asked and answered.
  • Check out helpful resources: Look for specific resources that can help you navigate the process.
  • Keep track of progress: Make sure to keep track of any progress you make in the forums or support groups.

You will know you have completed this step when you have joined an online discussion forum or support group, asked questions, researched answers to common questions, checked out helpful resources, and kept track of your progress.

Conclusion: Summary of the Process and Tips for Success

  • Review the entire process of obtaining a Perm Labor Certification
  • Summarize the entire process in a few sentences
  • Take into account the timeline and costs associated with obtaining a Perm Labor Certification
  • Make sure you research the regulations and requirements thoroughly for your individual situation
  • Consider using a free toolkit and templates to help guide you through the process
  • Utilize online discussion forums and support groups to get help and advice
  • Identify a reliable attorney who is well-versed in the Perm Labor Certification process
  • When all the steps have been completed, you can check this off your list and move on to the next step in the process

Summarize the steps of the process

  • Analyze the job requirements
  • Research the prevailing wage
  • File a labor certification application
  • Receive a decision from the Department of Labor
  • Submit the labor certification to USCIS
  • Receive a final decision from USCIS
  • Complete the I-9 form

You will know you have completed this step when you have analyzed the job requirements, researched the prevailing wage, filed the labor certification application, and received a decision from the Department of Labor.

Provide tips for preparing a successful application

  • Gather all necessary documents needed for the application process before you begin.
  • Carefully review all relevant regulations and guidelines to ensure you meet all requirements.
  • Pay close attention to all instructions to ensure you are providing the correct information in the correct format.
  • Be sure to double-check all steps and provide accurate information.
  • Provide proof of compliance with all state and federal laws.
  • Make sure the job advertisement clearly outlines the job duties and qualifications.
  • Carefully review all documents for accuracy and completeness before submitting.
  • Follow the timeline outlined in the instructions, as timing matters in the labor certification process.
  • When you are finished, verify that you have met all requirements and have provided all necessary documentation.

Emphasize the importance of following all guidelines and regulations

  • Ensure you are familiar with the regulations set by the US Department of Labor (DOL)
  • Read through the relevant labor certification requirements and familiarize yourself with the necessary documents and paperwork
  • Make sure you understand the rules and regulations you need to follow when submitting a labor certification application
  • Cross-check all information provided in the application against the DOL’s guidelines to ensure accuracy
  • Follow the DOL’s instructions carefully and ensure that all documents and paperwork are correctly filled out
  • When you are certain all information provided is correct, you can check this step off your list and proceed to the next step.

FAQ

Q: What are the differences between US, UK and EU labor certification processes?

Asked by Michael on April 9th 2022.
A: The labor certification process for the US, UK and EU differ in many ways. The US process involves filing an application with the Department of Labor, obtaining a prevailing wage determination and then filing a labor certification application. The UK process involves obtaining a work permit from the Home Office and then lodging an application with the Immigration Advisory Service. In the EU, the process is slightly different again as it requires that you obtain permission to work in a particular country before applying for a visa. Each country has its own set of laws and regulations which need to be followed when applying for labor certification.

Q: What documents and information are needed to apply for perm labor certification?

Asked by Nathan on May 8th 2022.
A: When applying for perm labor certification, you will need to provide a range of documents, such as your passport and/or birth certificate, proof of identity, educational qualifications and work experience. You will also need to provide an explanation of your intended job duties and any relevant skills you possess. Depending on the country you are applying in, there may also be additional documents required such as proof of income or language tests.

Q: How long does the perm labor certification process take?

Asked by Isabella on June 11th 2022.
A: The length of time it will take for you to receive your perm labor certification depends largely on the country you are applying in and how quickly all necessary documents and information can be gathered and submitted. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 6-12 months from start to finish. It is important to ensure that all documents are completed accurately in order to avoid any delays in the process.

Q: What is a prevailing wage determination?

Asked by Jackson on July 5th 2022.
A: A prevailing wage determination is a document issued by the US Department of Labor which provides information about the wages offered by employers in a particular area or occupation. This document helps employers calculate what amount they should offer prospective employees in order to attract skilled workers into their company or organization. The determination takes into account factors such as minimum wage laws, local economic conditions and industry standards.

Q: Are there any free tools available to help navigate the perm labor certification process?

Asked by Emma on August 16th 2022.
A: Yes, there are several free tools available online which can help you navigate the perm labor certification process more easily. These tools typically include free templates which can help you complete any necessary paperwork more quickly and accurately, as well as online resources which provide detailed information about each step of the process. There are also tools available specifically designed to assist with obtaining a prevailing wage determination, helping employers determine what wages they should offer prospective employees in order to attract skilled workers into their company or organization.

Q: What other immigration options exist besides permanent labor certification?

Asked by Lucas on September 3rd 2022.
A: Depending on your circumstances, there may be other immigration options available besides permanent labor certification. For example, if you have a temporary need for foreign workers due to seasonal employment or one-time project requirements, then you may be able to utilize guest worker programs such as H-2B visas or TN visas instead of permanent labor certification. You may also be able to utilize other forms of immigration such as family-based visas or student visas if you meet certain criteria. It is important to note that each form of immigration has its own set of requirements which must be met before an individual can be approved for entry into another country so it is important to research all options thoroughly before making a decision about which type of immigration is most suitable for your situation.

Q: Are there any particular industries that require special considerations when applying for perm labor certification?

Asked by Olivia on October 19th 2022.
A: Yes, certain industries may require special considerations when applying for perm labor certification due to unique needs or restrictions associated with them. For example, if your company operates within certain sectors such as technology or SaaS (Software-as-a-Service), then additional requirements may need to be met in order for you to obtain certifications or licenses applicable to your industry or business model. Additionally, if your business operates within multiple countries then it is important to ensure that you research each jurisdiction’s laws and regulations before beginning the application process so that you can make sure that all necessary paperwork is completed accurately before submission.

Q: What happens if my application for perm labor certification is denied?

Asked by Noah on November 24th 2022.
A: If your application for perm labor certification is denied then unfortunately there will not be much that you can do except appeal the decision if possible. When appealing a decision it is important to make sure that all evidence presented is accurate and relevant so that your case can be evaluated thoroughly by immigration officials who will review your application again with fresh eyes before making a final ruling about whether your application should be approved or denied once more. If an appeal is unsuccessful then unfortunately no further action can be taken except reapplying at a later date if desired after addressing any issues raised during your previous application process…

Example dispute

Suing an Employer for Violation of Permanent Labor Certification:

  • Plaintiff may sue an employer for violating Permanent Labor Certification (PERM) if they believe the employer has not followed the statutory requirements for hiring a foreign national.
  • The suit may claim the employer has not provided evidence of the labor market test, has not offered the job to the U.S. worker of equivalent qualifications, has not posted the job offer in two print sources, or has otherwise violated the regulations of PERM.
  • Settlement of the suit may be achieved through the employer agreeing to pay any damages the plaintiff is due, or rectifying the situation by following the regulations of PERM.
  • Damages may include back pay, compensatory damages, attorney’s fees, or other damages as determined by the court.

Templates available (free to use)

Perm Labor Certification Audit Documents File Cover Sheet
Perm Labor Certification Processing Table

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