Schedule A Labor Shortage Program
Tailored Employer-Sponsored Green Card Pathways for Workforce Shortages in the U.S.
Designated Labor Shortage Program
Under Schedule A, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) pre-approves certain occupations as critical shortage roles, allowing U.S. employers to sponsor overseas workers more efficiently compared to the standard PERM process. This pathway simplifies hiring for employers and provides foreign workers with a faster route to live and work legally in the United States.
Schedule A applies nationwide and is designed to help industries facing labor shortages recruit qualified international talent. It currently includes two major categories: Registered Nurses (RNs), Physical Therapists (PTs), and occupations showing exceptional ability in the sciences or arts.
Why Use Schedule A?
Schedule A is a streamlined employment-based immigration option established by the U.S. Department of Labor to help employers hire international workers in shortage occupations. It allows U.S. employers to bypass labor market testing and proceed directly with immigrant sponsorship under EB-2 or EB-3 visa categories.
Advantages
- Access to priority occupations pre-certified by the U.S. Department of Labor
- No labor market test (PERM recruitment) required
- Faster processing timeline compared to standard employment sponsorship
- Pathways to permanent residency through EB-2 or EB-3 employment-based visas
- Helps U.S. employers address immediate workforce shortages
Requirements
- Employer must file a permanent labor certification directly with USCIS under Schedule A
- Applicant must be qualified for an occupation listed under Schedule A
- Must meet licensing or credential requirements (if applicable)
- Must provide proof of education and work experience
- Must meet health and character requirements
Common Schedule A Occupations in the U.S.
- Registered Nurses (RNs)
- Physical Therapists (PTs)
- Advanced healthcare specialists
- Exceptional ability professionals in sciences or arts
- Other occupations identified by the U.S. Department of Labor as shortage roles
Application Process
Employer Petition
U.S. employer files Form I-140 under EB-2 or EB-3 Schedule A category.
Supporting Evidence
Submit credentials, job offer letter, and proof of qualifications.
USCIS Processing
USCIS reviews eligibility for Schedule A classification and immigrant visa filing.
Visa Application
Applicant completes immigrant visa processing at a U.S. consulate or applies for Adjustment of Status if already in the U.S.