(CNMI DOL) — The local Department of Labor is issuing a firm reminder to all employers across the government, nonprofit, autonomous, and private sectors to submit their final 2025 Census of Employment or COE data for calendar year 2025 no later than Jan. 31, 2026.
Timely submission is essential to advancing the CNMI’s strategic objective of closing the employment data gap and improving compliance.
As of today, the department has identified approximately 2,400 businesses that have not yet met the COE reporting requirement. These outstanding submissions represent both a significant compliance concern and an important opportunity for the community to strengthen the CNMI’s economic data infrastructure.
“Accurate employment data is fundamental to informed policymaking and measuring the resilience of our economy,” said CNMI DOL Secretary Leila Staffler. “We strongly encourage all employers to act now and complete their COE submission by Jan. 31, 2026. The process is fully accessible online at www.labor.cnmi.gov”/.
Why the COE matters
The COE provides critical insight into employment levels across all sectors, helping the CNMI identify labor-market trends and workforce needs.
For FY 2026, CNMI DOL aims to increase compliance and close existing data gaps to ensure complete and timely employment information.
Failure to submit COE data limits the ability of policymakers and community leaders to develop effective workforce and economic policies.
Who must submit
All employers operating in the CNMI — including government agencies, autonomous entities, nonprofit organizations, and private businesses — are required to submit COE data, regardless of size or sector.
Consequences of non-compliance
Employers that fail to submit the COE by the deadline may be subject to follow-up enforcement actions and may be denied Good Standing Certifications issued by CNMI DOL. Beyond enforcement, non-compliance undermines the collective effort to maintain accurate and reliable employment data for the CNMI.
How to submit
Visit labor.cnmi.gov
Select Employers → Report Census of Employment
Follow the instructions and submit the completed COE form by Jan. 31, 2026
For questions or assistance, employers may contact CNMI DOL at (670) 664-9136.
The CNMI Department of Labor extends its appreciation to employers who have already complied and thanks them for their timely cooperation.
