The DOL released its PERM stats for FY 2011. 

What is PERM?

Some employment-based applications require you to go through a process called Program Review Electronic Management (PERM). This is a procedure by which the U.S. Department of Labor (“DOL”) certifies there is a lack of qualified U.S. workers in your job category. Once you receive an approved labor certification, you can apply to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (“USCIS”) for your immigrant visa.

Key Take-Aways

Most noteworthy was the 63% increase in PERM cases filed FY 2011 (October 1, 2010 - May 31, 2011).  Over 45,000 cases were filed during this period. The stats also show that 78% of applicants have at least a Bachelor's degree, with 37% holding a Bachelor's degree, 37% holding a Master's degree, and 4% with a Doctorate. 

Additionally, PERM applications subject to an audit by the DOL are moving through the system more quickly.  Cases currently subject to audit were delayed nine months compared to delays by as much as two years in prior years.