The PERM labor certification process is essential for U.S. employers sponsoring foreign workers for employment-based green cards. The process verifies that there are no qualified U.S. workers available for the job, allowing the employer to recruit foreign workers. Given that this process can be complex, especially for companies employing multiple foreign workers, PERM batching offers a valuable strategy to streamline and reduce costs.
What is PERM Batching?
PERM batching is the practice of submitting multiple PERM applications at once for workers in similar roles or locations. By coordinating the submission of multiple applications, employers can improve efficiency and consistency, enhancing the likelihood of approval and reducing repetitive work.
Key Benefits of PERM Batching
- Efficiency: By batching applications, employers save time and resources on paperwork. The DOL may also review similar applications simultaneously, potentially speeding up processing times.
- Consistency: Submitting multiple applications for similar roles ensures uniformity in documentation, improving the strength and approval likelihood of each case.
- Strategic Timing: Employers can align the timing of multiple PERM applications to match favorable immigration processing trends, increasing the chances of success.
- Workforce Planning: PERM batching helps secure green cards for multiple employees simultaneously, allowing companies to maintain a steady, stable workforce.
- Cost Savings: Employers save on expenses like legal and advertising fees by sharing these costs across several applications.
Timing with Fee Increases
With USCIS fees set to increase on April 1, 2024, PERM batching could become an essential strategy for employers looking to offset rising immigration costs. By submitting batched applications before this date, employers may avoid some of these new expenses.
Compliance and Best Practices
While PERM batching can reduce costs and processing time, employers must remain compliant with DOL regulations to prevent issues. Proper documentation, transparent recruitment efforts, and adherence to DOL requirements are critical to ensure that all batched applications are processed smoothly and without delays.
Using PERM batching strategically can save employers time, money, and resources—particularly in light of the upcoming USCIS fee hikes. However, working with knowledgeable HR professionals and immigration attorneys is key to navigating this process successfully.
