Schedule A – Precertification of Labor Certification
What is Schedule A?
Schedule A is a list of job classifications that have been designated by the U.S. Department of Labor that those job classifications will not adversely affect U.S. workers. Therefore no advertising or recruitmen is required to test the job market as is required in regular labor certification process.
Who can take advantage of Schdule A?
The following job classifications are listed under schedule A:
• Physical Therapists who possess all the qualifications necessary to take the physical therapist licensing examination in the state in which they propose to practice physical therapy;
• Professional Nurses who have (i) a Commission on Graduates in Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) Certificate, (ii) passed the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) exam, or (iii) possessed a full and unrestricted (permanent) license to practice nursing in the state of intended employment.
• Aliens of exceptional ability in the sciences or arts (except for aliens in the performing arts) including college and university teachers of exceptional ability who have been practicing their science or art during the year prior to application and who intend to practice the same science or art in the United States. For purposes of this group, the term "science or art" means any field of knowledge and/or skill with respect to which colleges and universities commonly offer specialized courses leading to a degree in the knowledge and/or skill.
• Aliens of exceptional ability in the performing arts whose work during the past 12 months required, and whose intended work in the United States will require, exceptional ability.
How to take advantage of Schdule A?
An employer who wishes to apply for a labor certification with a Schedule A occupation should file an ETA Form 9089, in duplicate directly with the appropriate USCIS service center, and no need to file labor certification application with the Department of Labor.
