Summary
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has started processing employment visa applications again after a pause due to a federal government shutdown. This means U.S. employers can resume submitting applications for H-1B, H-2A, H-2B, and PERM visa programs. The halt had created backlogs and delays, affecting the hiring of foreign workers.
Key Facts
- The DOL halted visa application processing during a federal government shutdown.
- Employers can now submit applications for H-1B, H-2A, H-2B, and PERM visas again.
- The pause had caused backlogs and delayed start dates for foreign workers.
- The Foreign Labor Application Gateway (FLAG) platform is back online for applications.
- LCAs are required to file H-1B petitions with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
- Approval of LCAs usually takes 7 to 10 days.
- Employers need to plan submissions carefully due to expected backlogs.
