Definition

Labor Certification

A DOL determination that no qualified U.S. worker is available for the position offered to a foreign worker.

Labor certification is required for most EB-2 and EB-3 employer-sponsored petitions. The employer files an ETA-9089 with DOL after testing the labor market through a recruitment process. Approval establishes the priority date.

See also

PERM

Program Electronic Review Management — the labor certification process for most EB-2 and EB-3 cases.
EB-2

Employment-based second preference: advanced-degree professionals and exceptional ability.
EB-3

Employment-based third preference: skilled workers, professionals, and other workers.

Not legal advice. Definitions are provided for educational use. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney.