SAIPAN — The CNMI Department of Labor issued a correction to a previous press statement about the Certificate of Good Standing, clarifying that the Workers’ Compensation Office certification within the Department of Commerce is valid for one year, not three months as previously stated.
The department said the one-year validity matches another newly added requirement, OSHA Onsite Consultation, which is also valid for one year.
DOL described the Certificate of Good Standing as a compliance document used to verify an employer is meeting labor-related obligations under CNMI law, including employment reporting requirements, workplace safety standards, and other statutory protections.
The department said the certificate is not required for all businesses. It is required when needed to participate in federal or local government contracting opportunities, or when specifically required as supporting documentation for certain applications or certifications.
As part of its FY2026 goals, DOL said it is prioritizing improved compliance, particularly timely submission of the Census of Employment (COE), which it said provides critical data on the CNMI workforce and economy.
DOL said it recently conducted employer outreach on Tinian, meeting with businesses to share updated policies, explain Certificate of Good Standing requirements, and emphasize the importance of COE submissions.
The department said it will continue outreach on Rota on February 26 at 9 a.m. at Puesto Grill, where staff will meet with local businesses to provide guidance, policy updates, and technical assistance.
