Employment-based green card
PERM through I-485 adjustment of status for employer-sponsored permanent residency
1.PERM labor certification
6 mo - 1 yr
PERM
Employer files a labor certification with the Department of Labor to demonstrate no qualified U.S. workers are available.
Tip: Start recruitment process early. Keep detailed records of all job postings and candidate evaluations.
2.Immigrant petition
4 mo - 9 mo
I-140
Employer files Form I-140 to classify the foreign worker under the correct employment-based preference category.
Tip: Consider premium processing ($2,965) for 15 business-day adjudication. Have all supporting documents ready.
3.Priority date wait
0 mo - 5 yr
Wait for your priority date to become current based on the monthly Visa Bulletin.
Tip: Check the Visa Bulletin monthly. Priority date is set when PERM is filed. Wait time varies significantly by country of birth.
4.Adjustment of status
8 mo - 1 yr 6 mo
I-485
File Form I-485 to adjust status to permanent resident once priority date is current.
Tip: File I-765 (EAD) and I-131 (Advance Parole) with it if you need them - since April 1, 2024 each has its own fee ($260 for the I-765 and $630 for the I-131 with a pending I-485). Complete medical exam (I-693) before filing.
5.EAD / advance parole
3 mo - 8 mo
I-765
Employment Authorization Document and travel document, usually filed with the I-485. Each has its own fee since April 1, 2024.
Tip: Combo card (EAD + AP) is common. You can work for any employer once EAD is received.
6.Interview
1 mo - 2 mo
USCIS interview at your local field office to review your application.
Tip: Bring originals of all documents. Dress professionally. Arrive 15 minutes early.
7.Approval and card
0 mo - 1 mo
Case approved and green card produced and mailed.
Tip: Card typically arrives within 2-3 weeks of approval. Update your address if you move.
These durations are typical ranges, not promises - USCIS publishes its own current times, and yours may differ in either direction. Nothing here is legal advice.