PERM Profile – Updates And Trends In The Labor Certification Process

The Numbers

Recently released DOL statistics show that there are currently 21,000 PERM applications pending. Of these, 50% are being reviewed by analysts and 33% (estimated to be about 7,000 cases) are being audited. Analysts are reportedly processing applications filed on or about October 2011 and are reviewing audit responses received on or about April 2011. The DOL has implemented measures in its Atlanta processing center to improve "timeliness." The goal is to have all PERM processes completed in no more than 180 days. The DOL reports that it is not yet meeting that goal.

For FY 2012, the DOL reports that it has certified 9,400 applications and denied 2,400. Only about 45% of the applications that were audited were approved.