The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has reported that the average processing time for a PERM labor certification application is currently about 16 months. A recent case from March 31, 2026, illustrates this timeline, as a PERM application filed on November 26, 2024, received approval after navigating various challenges in the labor market testing phase.
Key Details:
- Average PERM processing time: 16 months.
- Recent approval date: March 31, 2026.
- Application filed: November 26, 2024.
- Next step: I-140 immigrant visa petition.
This lengthy process underscores the challenges faced by employers and foreign workers seeking permanent residency through employer sponsorship. As the first stage of the three-stage green card process, the PERM approval is a critical milestone for many immigrants in the U.S. on temporary work visas.
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Source: Robert Webber