PERM processing time is one of the most asked-about topics by people applying for U.S. green cards through employment. If you’re planning to move to the U.S. for work, or you’re already here on a temporary visa, understanding PERM timelines is very important. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the whole process—from the current wait times to what affects the timeline, and even real-life examples.
We’ll also share a helpful chart and table, plus some tips on what to expect in the future.
Contents
🔍 What is PERM Labor Certification?
Before we dive into PERM processing time, let’s understand what PERM is.
PERM stands for Program Electronic Review Management. It’s the first step for most employment-based green card applications in the United States. The Department of Labor (DOL) uses this process to make sure that hiring a foreign worker won’t hurt U.S. workers’ wages or job chances.
Here’s how the PERM process works:
- Job Posting & Recruitment: The employer must try to hire a U.S. worker by advertising the job.
- Filing ETA Form 9089: If no qualified U.S. worker applies, the employer files this form.
- DOL Review: The DOL checks the form and makes a decision.
⏱️ What is the Current PERM Processing Time in 2025?
As of July 2025, the average PERM processing time is:
| Step | Type | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Prevailing Wage Determination | Regular | 8-10 weeks |
| Recruitment Period | Mandatory | 2-3 months |
| PERM Application Review | Analyst Review | 8-10 months |
| Audit Review (if selected) | Additional | 12-14 months |
👉 Total Time (With Audit): Can go up to 18 to 24 months
Source: U.S. Department of Labor Processing Times
📊 PERM Processing Time Table (2023 vs 2025)
| Year | Without Audit | With Audit | Notes |
|---|
| 2023 | 8-10 months | 15-18 months | Faster in early 2023 |
| 2024 | 10-12 months | 18-20 months | Slower due to high demand |
| 2025 | 10-13 months | 18-24 months | Same or slightly longer |
As you can see, PERM processing time has increased slightly over the years due to high numbers of applications and staffing delays.
✅ Real-Life Example of PERM Processing
Let’s look at a real example of how long it took for someone to get their PERM approved.
Case Study – Software Engineer in Texas:
Rajesh, a software engineer working in Austin, Texas, had his employer start the PERM process in January 2024.
- Job ad ran in February to March 2024
- PERM application filed in April 2024
- PERM approved in February 2025
- Total Time: 10 months
This is a typical case when there is no audit involved. If there is an audit, it can take 6–12 more months.
🧾 What Factors Affect PERM Processing Time?
There are a few things that make the PERM processing time longer or shorter:
🕵️♀️ 1. Audit Selection
If your application is selected for an audit, it can slow things down by months. About 25% of PERM applications get audited.
💼 2. Employer Mistakes
If the employer makes an error on the form, the Department of Labor may deny or delay the case.
🌍 3. Volume of Applications
In busy years, when many companies are filing PERMs, it takes longer for the DOL to review each case.
📑 4. Job Type and Location
Some job roles or areas have higher scrutiny. For example, positions in IT or areas with high unemployment may take longer.
💡 How to Speed Up PERM Processing Time
Even though the process is mostly out of your hands, there are some smart steps you or your employer can take:
✅ File Early
Start the PERM process as early as possible—at least 1.5 years before your H-1B maxes out.
✅ Avoid Mistakes
Check and double-check the ETA Form 9089. Small mistakes can cause huge delays.
✅ Work With Experienced Lawyers
Employers should hire immigration attorneys who know how to handle recruitment and documentation.
✅ Be Transparent
The employer must keep clear records of the recruitment process. This helps in case of an audit.
🔮 Future of PERM Processing Time
The U.S. government is slowly working on making the PERM process more efficient. In 2024, there was talk of updating the system with AI tools and better online tracking. By 2026, we might see faster approvals and fewer delays. But for now, it’s best to plan for a wait of 10 to 14 months.
🌐 External Resources to Check
❓ FAQs About PERM Processing Time
Q1: How can I check my PERM processing status?
You can’t check it personally. Only the employer or attorney can track the case through the FLAG DOL portal.
Q2: What if my PERM is denied?
If it’s denied, your employer can file again or appeal the decision within 30 days.
Q3: Is premium processing available for PERM?
No. Premium processing is not available for PERM. It’s only for the I-140 and other visa stages.
Q4: What happens after PERM is approved?
Once your PERM is approved, your employer can file Form I-140 with USCIS, which can take another few months.
Q5: Can I change employers during the PERM process?
If you change employers, the new employer has to start the PERM process from the beginning.
✍️ Conclusion
Understanding PERM processing time is key if you’re applying for a green card through your employer. While the average wait is 10–13 months, delays can happen due to audits or heavy case loads. The best thing you can do is start early, work with a good employer, and avoid errors.
We hope this easy-to-follow guide helped you understand the process better. Stay updated by visiting official websites like DOL’s PERM page or speaking with your immigration lawyer.
Let’s hope the future brings faster processing, fewer delays, and better tools for applicants and employers alike.
If you found this post helpful, share it with someone who’s also starting their green card journey. 🛫🇺🇸
