Google’s PERM process has suddenly become a hot topic across tech forums, immigration circles, and social media, especially among H-1B visa holders. The renewed discussion isn’t random. After a long pause, Google has announced plans to restart and expand its PERM-based green card sponsorship program.
But what exactly is the PERM process, why did Google stop it earlier, and why is it trending again now?
This article breaks it down in simple, accurate terms, without legal jargon.
PERM stands for Program Electronic Review Management.
It is the first and most critical step in an employer-sponsored US green card process.
The PERM system is managed by the US Department of Labor (DOL) and exists to ensure that hiring a foreign worker does not negatively impact US workers.
In simple words: PERM is the government’s way of checking whether a qualified American worker is available for the job before approving a foreign employee for permanent residency.
Large employers such as Google use the PERM process to sponsor skilled foreign workers, usually those already working on H-1B or similar visas, for permanent residency (green cards).
PERM allows companies to:
Retain long-term global talent
Reduce visa uncertainty for employees
Plan workforce stability beyond temporary visas
1. Prevailing Wage Determination
The employer must prove they will pay the foreign worker a fair wage based on US market standards for that role and location.
2. Mandatory Recruitment
The company must actively advertise the job in the US:
Job portals
Newspaper ads
Internal postings
This step proves there is no qualified, willing, and available US worker for the role.
3. PERM Labor Certification Filing
If recruitment fails to find a suitable US worker, the employer files the PERM application with the Department of Labor. Once approved, the employee can move to the next stage of the green card process.
Why Google Paused PERM Earlier
Google, like many tech giants, slowed or paused PERM filings during:
Mass tech layoffs
Hiring freezes
Increased scrutiny of labor market conditions
During periods of high unemployment, it becomes harder for companies to prove that no US workers are available, making PERM approvals riskier.
Why Google’s PERM Process Is Trending Now
The renewed attention comes from reports that Google plans to restart and increase PERM filings in 2026. This matters because:
Thousands of foreign workers were stuck in visa limbo
PERM restarts signal long-term hiring confidence
It reflects stabilizing conditions in the tech job market
For many employees, this could be the first real opportunity in years to move toward permanent residency.
Who Is Likely to Benefit
Google’s PERM sponsorship is expected to be:
Selective
Performance-based
Role- and location-dependent
Typically eligible profiles include:
Experienced engineers
Product and AI specialists
Employees working from US offices (not fully remote)
What This Means for H-1B Workers
For H-1B holders, PERM is one of the most reliable green card pathways. If Google and other tech companies expand PERM filings:
Green card backlogs may slowly ease
Employee retention will increase
Visa dependency risks reduce over time
However, PERM remains employer-controlled, employees cannot file independently.
Final Thoughts
Google’s PERM process trending again is more than just news, it’s a signal.
It suggests renewed confidence in long-term hiring, stabilizing labor markets, and a possible shift in how big tech approaches immigration planning.
For foreign workers, it brings cautious optimism, and a reminder that understanding PERM is essential for anyone planning a future in the US tech ecosystem.
No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Leave A Reply