What is the process by which an employer registers and files an application on line?

According to the Labor Department:

In order to file permanent labor certification applications on-line, the employer must have a Permanent Online System account, username, password, and PIN. The account allows for the preparation and management of applications on-line, the username and password are necessary to access the account, and the PIN is required to submit applications on-line.

Permanent Online System account

An account is created after an employer has submitted registration information on-line at www.plc.doleta.gov and the employer information is verified by DOL. Account creation is a means by which to control filing authorization and to provide account holders filing management capabilities. An employer must be registered and be in possession of a PIN in order to file applications on-line. Upon verification of the employer's information, a password and confirmation of the account holder's username are sent to the employer in one email and, for security reasons, the PIN in another. It must be noted that upon accessing the account for the first time, the system requires the DOL password be changed to a new password. It is critical that the employer be aware of and know the new password, as only an individual in possession of the account's valid username and password is able to access the account.

Sub-account

The holder of a Permanent Online System account is able to create multiple sub-accounts with individual usernames and passwords for persons authorized by the employer to file applications in its name, to include attorneys and agents. It is a means by which to provide the employer the security of ensuring only persons authorized by the employer are filing on the employer's behalf. In creating a sub-account, the employer is able to designate whether the sub-account holder is the employer's employee, the employer's agent or the employer's lawyer. The employer is also able to designate the level of security access available to the sub-account holder.

NOTE: While the employer is permitted the opportunity to designate persons to represent the employer in the application filing process, the employer must recognize that ultimate responsibility for the accuracy of all representations made by such designated persons rests with the employer. Therefore, the employer is encouraged to establish measures designed to ensure only legitimate dissemination and use of account information.

Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN)

The FEIN is provided to the employer by the IRS. It is a means by which the Department of Labor (DOL) verifies the bona fides of the employer and ensures that only legitimate employers are able to avail themselves of the labor certification process. In order to satisfy the definition of employer for purposes of labor certification, all employers, including employers of household domestic workers, must possess a valid FEIN.

Username

The username is a log-in name provided by the employer registrant. After registration, upon successful employer verification, confirmation of the username is emailed to the employer by DOL. It is a means by which to identify the account holder and establish access authority. Each username is unique; duplications are not accepted.

Password

An initial password is provided by the Permanent Online System. After registration, upon successful employer verification, the temporary password is emailed to the employer by DOL. Upon activation of an account after registration, the individual initially accessing the account is required to create a new password. The password is a means by which to identify the account holder and establish access authority. NOTE: An account can only be accessed by the holder of the username and password. Where the password is changed, only an individual with the user name and the new password will be able to access the account.

Personal Identification Number (PIN)

The PIN is provided to the employer after registration upon successful employer verification by DOL. It is a means by which to safeguard on-line filing. Only an individual in possession of a PIN is able to actually submit a labor certification application on-line. The PIN used in submitting an application must be the PIN of the employer named on the application filing the application.