November 2007

Update on Backlog Elimination Cases

On October 1, 2007, the Department of Labor (DOL) announced that the backlog in the permanent labor certification program had been eliminated, with 99% of cases completed and the remainder awaiting employer responses (DOL News Release). The Dallas and Philadelphia Backlog Elimination Centers (BECs) have begun a transition and shutdown phase that is scheduled to continue through December.

For individuals with cases still pending at the BECs, case status updates can be found at the online Backlog Public Disclosure System. This system will continue to be active until the remaining cases are completed.

The DOL has published a series of frequently asked questions regarding the transition and shut down phase of the BECs and how remaining cases will be addressed, including those on appeal to the Board of Alien Labor Certification Appeals (BALCA).