H-1B Compass
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Glossary · USCIS forms

LCA (Labor Condition Application)

Form ETA-9035 the employer files with DOL before the I-129. Sets the wage and confirms the work-site location.

The LCA is filed with the Department of Labor's Office of Foreign Labor Certification (OFLC) — quarterly disclosure data is public at dol.gov/agencies/eta/foreign-labor/performance. Each H-1B petition needs an underlying certified LCA. Material job changes (new work site, materially different role) require a new LCA AND an amended I-129. The LCA wage you're paid must meet or exceed the higher of (a) the prevailing wage for your role in your area or (b) the actual wage your employer pays similar workers.

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