U.S. Department of Labor Resumes Key Immigration Certification Processing Amid Shutdown
In the midst of an ongoing federal government shutdown, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has announced that it is restarting the processing of certain temporary and permanent labor certification programs. These include applications for permanent labor certification (PERM) and seasonal/temporary worker programs, though some other filings remain paused. Employers and immigration counsel should take note of the resumed functions as well as the caveats that accompany them.
Key Points
- Employers can access previously submitted or certified filings for review and download.
- SeasonalJobs.dol.gov is also back online, providing access to temporary job postings under H-2A and H-2B programs.
- Even though the system is back online, full operations at the Office of Foreign Labor Certification (OFLC) remain on hold pending appropriations — meaning new certifications, prevailing wage determinations, LCAs, and PERM filings may still face significant delays.
- For new filings or those in process, we recommend documenting any impact caused by the shutdown.
We will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as any further guidance or DOL announcements are released. If you have any specific cases in process or are planning filings that depend on DOL certifications, please contact us so we can review your timeline and strategy together.
The content of this article is intended only to provide a general guide to the subject matter. It should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact FGI at info@employmentimmigration.com or (+1) 248.643.4900 for guidance if you have specific questions.