Definition

Prevailing Wage

The DOL-determined wage paid to similarly employed workers in a specific occupation and area.

A prevailing wage determination is required as the first step of PERM and is also used for H-1B Labor Condition Applications. Employers must pay at least the prevailing wage to qualify foreign workers for many employment-based programs.

See also

PERM

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

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

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