This process is most often used for skilled workers those whose jobs require at least two years of experience. Examples of the types of jobs for which the labor certification process is most successful include specialty cooks, tailors, automobile mechanics, and computer-related occupations. If a worker has two or more years experience in a skilled job, he or she may be able to apply for permanent residence through the labor certification process. A person who is outside the United States may use this process to obtain an immigrant visa. A person who is in the United States may use this procedure to apply for permanent residence if he is currently in legal status or, in some cases, if his or her legal status has expired.
Labor certification involves several steps.
The worker must have an employer who is willing to go through the process of sponsorship. This usually involves no monetary cost to the employer, but does involve some time and requires the employer s signature on several forms. The first step in the labor certification process involves placing an advertisement of the desired position in a local newspaper. This ad must run for at least three consecutive days and must describe the position, the hours, and salary. After the ad appears, the employer must wait thirty days before filing any application with the Department of Labor.