An experience letter is crucial in the PERM or I-140 process, showcasing an employee’s qualifications and work history. This post outlines what to include in an experience letter, from job duties to employment dates, and explains its role in meeting USCIS requirements. Learn best practices for creating a compelling letter to support immigration petitions effectively.
What Is an Experience Letter for PERM or I-140?
An experience letter verifies an employee’s work history and skills, helping USCIS evaluate their qualifications for a specific job.
Key Components of an Effective Experience Letter
1. Signatory Authority
- Must be signed by a supervisor, HR manager, or equivalent authority.
- Include:
- Full name
- Position
- Contact details
- Official signature
- Use company letterhead for authenticity.
2. Position and Employment Type
- Specify:
- Job title
- Full-time or part-time status
- Weekly working hours
3. Dates of Employment
- Clearly state the start and end dates.
- Essential for USCIS to verify experience relevance.
4. Job Responsibilities and Skills
- Detailed duties and skills acquired.
- Align descriptions with ETA 9089 job requirements.
Why Detailed Job Duties Matter
USCIS cross-references job responsibilities in the experience letter with the ETA 9089 form to confirm eligibility. Missing or vague details can cause delays or denials.
Who Should Provide the Letter?
- Ideally, the employee’s former employer.
- If unavailable:
- Direct supervisors or HR staff can issue the letter.
- Colleague statements may supplement but not replace the primary letter.
Conclusion
A precise and professionally written experience letter is critical to a successful PERM or I-140 petition. It validates qualifications and ensures compliance with USCIS standards, helping avoid processing issues. Work with experienced professionals to craft a letter that supports your case.
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