Following the end of the government shutdown caused by a lapse in federal funding, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has officially resumed processing of Labor Condition Applications (LCAs) for H-1B visas and PERM labor certifications. The Office of Foreign Labor Certification (OFLC) has announced that its Foreign Labor Application Gateway (FLAG) system is now fully operational, allowing employers to file new applications, track current submissions, and receive updates on pending cases.
This critical system restart lifts the pause that had begun around September 30, 2025, halting services for several weeks. During this period, employers were unable to submit any new applications or amendments, leading to a backlog of cases. Now, employers can submit LCAs for H-1B, H-2A, H-2B, and PERM certifications needed to sponsor foreign workers for temporary and permanent employment. However, officials warn that processing times might be slower than usual due to the accumulated backlog, especially for applications filed prior to the shutdown.
The delay impacted industries heavily reliant on foreign talent, including tech, healthcare, and other sectors, with many Indian nationals facing extended wait times. The department has promised ongoing updates and technical assistance to help stakeholders navigate the resumption smoothly, emphasizing the importance of patience as the OFLC transitions back to full operational status.
