Hey there, future green card holders! Today, we're diving into the world of PERM - the crucial step in your employment-based green card journey. Let's break it down and show you how to speed things up!
The PERM Timeline
PERM isn't a sprint; it's a marathon. On average, we're looking at about 2 years from start to finish. Here's why:
6-7 months for Prevailing Wage Determination (PWD): This stage involves the Department of Labor (DOL) determining the average wage for your job in your specific geographic location. It's a critical step to ensure that your employer is offering a fair wage that meets industry standards.
12-13 months for PERM processing: Once the wage is determined, the employer files the PERM application, which involves proving that there are no qualified U.S. workers available for the job. This includes a thorough recruitment process and documentation review by the DOL.
But don't worry! We've got some insider tips to keep things moving.
Tips for Employees.
Employment Verification Letters (EVLs)
These are your golden tickets. Here's what you need to do:
Contact your previous employers ASAP: Reach out to your former employers as soon as possible to avoid delays. The sooner you request your EVLs, the better.
Request letters with your job title, employment dates, and specific duties: These details are crucial for demonstrating your work experience and qualifications. Make sure the letters are clear and comprehensive.
Be persistent - the squeaky wheel gets the oil!: Follow up regularly if you don't receive a prompt response. Your persistence can expedite the process and ensure you have all necessary documentation in hand.
Remember, this is one of the few parts of the process you can control. Make it count!
Tips for Employers.
Run Recruitment During PWD. Employers, listen up! You can potentially save up to 6 months by running recruitment while waiting for the PWD. Yes, there are risks:
Shortened filing window for PERM: Starting recruitment early can lead to a tighter timeline for filing the PERM application, which requires careful coordination.
Possible need to redo if PWD wage differs: If the DOL sets a different wage than expected, you might need to adjust your recruitment efforts, which could involve additional time and resources.
But if timing is crucial, it's worth considering. Talk to your immigration attorney about this option.
The Game-Changer: Batch PERM
Now, here's the secret weapon: Batch PERM processing. This method can:
Cut a full year off processing time: By filing multiple PERM applications using a single PWD and labor market test, you streamline the process and reduce waiting times significantly.
Save thousands in advertising costs: Batch processing reduces the need for separate recruitment campaigns for each application, leading to substantial cost savings.
How? By filing multiple PERMs using a single PWD and labor market test. It's a game-changer for employers and employees alike.
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Remember, at Atlas , we're here to make your green card journey as smooth as possible. Like, comment, and share if you found this helpful. See you in the next video!
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