DOL will issue PERM approvals by email rather than paper approval going forward.
This change was first made for the period between March 25 to June 30, 2020, and then later extended to Sep 30, due to the Coronavirus emergency.
DOL has now announced that it will adopt this practice permanently.
Another good news is that USCIS will start accepting premium processing for all types of i-140 applications including EB1-C managers and EB2 NIW.
PERM approval email should save time as it will reach the employer electronically rather than UPS mail which takes about 2-8 days to deliver a paper copy.
The PERM processing time should remain the same though.
USCIS should accept the email approval for the i140 filing.
Before filing a Form I-140 with USCIS, the electronic copy of the certified ETA Form 9089 must be printed, and signed and dated in the appropriate sections by the:
1. Foreign worker;
2. Preparer (if applicable); and
3. Employer.
DOL has requested USCIS to accept the printed Form ETA-9089, containing all signatures, as satisfying the requirement that petitioners provide evidence of an original labor certification.
DOL will send the certified Form ETA-9089 and Final Determination letter by email.
DOL will send the PERM approval email only to the employer or their attorney.
Employees cannot receive a PERM approval email.
