Amazon (AMZN) has resumed the process of assisting foreign workers in obtaining green cards, according to an internal memo reported by Business Insider. This marks the company’s return to the Program Electronic Review Management (PERM) process, which it paused two years ago. The process, which resumed on January 6, had been suspended since 2021.
The exact reason for Amazon’s decision to restart these applications remains unspecified. However, it is widely viewed as part of a strategy to prepare for increased competition in the labor market. The PERM process is essential for foreign workers pursuing green cards, as it ensures companies demonstrate that hiring these individuals does not negatively impact job opportunities or wages for U.S. citizens. This complex procedure typically takes two to three years to complete and costs employers anywhere from $2,500 to $20,000 per employee.
The decision to revive green card processing comes as Amazon simultaneously scales back certain operations. Earlier this week, the company announced the closure of seven warehouses in Quebec, Canada, resulting in layoffs affecting nearly 2,000 workers. Since late 2022, Amazon has eliminated more than 27,000 roles across various departments. Notably, its Fashion and Fitness division faced a loss of 200 employees earlier this month.
Despite these reductions, the renewal of PERM filings indicates Amazon’s commitment to recruiting global talent as part of its long-term growth strategy. The company, which ranks as the second-largest employer in the U.S. behind Walmart (WMT), appears to be recalibrating its workforce to meet future objectives.
This decision may also be linked to policies proposed during President Donald Trump’s administration. Trump had advocated for granting green cards to foreign students graduating from U.S. colleges, a move that would expand the talent pool for companies like Amazon.
Additionally, this shift coincides with Amazon’s enforcement of its return-to-office (RTO) policy. The company has warned employees that failure to comply with this mandate could result in termination. Amazon initially aimed for all employees to return to the office five days a week by January 2, 2025. However, logistical challenges, including a lack of sufficient office space, have made it difficult to fully implement this policy across all locations.
As Amazon navigates these workforce changes, its renewed focus on green card applications underscores a dual approach—addressing immediate operational needs while investing in a diverse and competitive global workforce for the future.