A surge in CW‑1 “touchback” requirements and months‑long processing delays are creating new uncertainty for CNMI employers, according to the Saipan Chamber of Commerce.
Chamber President Joshua Wise said the organization is closely monitoring the expected increase in CW‑1 workers who must depart and reenter the Commonwealth this year. “Yes, the Chamber is aware that a significant number of CW‑1 workers are expected to touch back this year, and it is an issue we are actively monitoring,” he said.
Under federal rules, many CW‑1 workers must complete a 30‑day departure after three consecutive petition validity periods before a new CW‑1 petition can be filed. Employers say the requirement can trigger large waves of worker departures, especially when combined with lengthy adjudication times.
Wise said members across multiple industries are reporting CW‑1 processing times of 4 to 9 months, making workforce planning increasingly difficult. “These lengthy processing times create uncertainty for businesses that depend on maintaining a stable workforce and can make workforce planning extremely difficult,” he said.
He added that employers who comply with federal requirements and submit applications on time should receive timely adjudication. “Delays of this magnitude place unnecessary strain on businesses, employees, and the broader economy,” Wise said.
Wise said the Chamber supports efforts to improve the efficiency and predictability of the CW‑1 program while maintaining its integrity. He encouraged federal agencies to continue working with the CNMI business community “to ensure the program functions as Congress intended and that employers have the workforce needed to sustain essential industries.”
“We will continue gathering feedback from our members and advocating for practical solutions that support both compliance and economic stability in the Commonwealth,” Wise said.
