US Department of Labor Resumes Processing of Foreign Worker Visas After Month-Long Shutdown

The US Department of Labor (DOL) has resumed processing visa applications under its foreign worker programs, nearly a month after operations were halted due to the federal government’s funding lapse.

The Office of Foreign Labor Certification (OFLC) confirmed that its core systems — the Foreign Labor Application Gateway (FLAG) and SeasonalJobs.dol.gov — are fully operational again. These platforms are crucial for employers across technology, healthcare, agriculture, and hospitality sectors.

With the restart, employers can now file Labor Condition Applications (LCAs) for H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 visas, and submit PERM labor certification requests, both required before sponsoring foreign professionals for permanent residency.

However, the DOL has cautioned that processing delays are expected due to a heavy backlog accumulated during the shutdown. “Some may experience longer than normal processing and response times,” the department said, apologizing for the inconvenience.

Between October 1 and 31, employers were unable to file new PERM applications. While previous shutdowns prompted short grace periods for expired recruitment efforts, the DOL has not yet announced whether a similar policy will apply this time.

The month-long disruption has raised concern among tech firms and other employers heavily dependent on foreign workers, as delays in visa renewals and certifications could affect ongoing projects and employment continuity.