What is PERM and when was it introduced?
On March 28, 2005, the DOL introduced the PERM process whereby all labor certification applications are filed electronically and processing by the DOL occurs by a centralized computer system rather than relying on local offices to process applications by hand as was done under the old system. The regulations provide for a standard processing time of between 45 to 60 days (with exceptions) from the day a PERM application is satisfactorily filed. This represents a significant reduction in processing times which used to take between two and five plus years under the prior RIR and traditional labor certification process. Extensive recruitment is conducted prior to making the electronic submission and while evidence of such recruitment is not submitted at the time of filing, it is required to be kept on file for purposes of responding to random and targeted audits by the DOL. It is through such audits that recruitment is monitored by the DOL and strict measures are in place to weed out frau
