Labor Certification A person whose occupation requires a labor certification must have prearranged employment in the United States. Individual Labor Certification The prospective employer initially applies for alien labor certification on behalf of the prospective alien employee to the U.S. Department of Labor (“DOL”).  Under the PERM program, Labor Certification Applications may be filed with the DOL online.  The process takes between 45 and 60 days after filing.  Employers must complete advance recruitment and maintain detailed records of their recruitment efforts. Pre-Certification Certain occupations have been pre-certified by the DOL. The occupations include physical therapists and nurses and aliens of exceptional ability in the sciences and arts (except performing arts).