Navigating the path to permanent residency through employer sponsorship.
The I-140 Immigrant Petition is a cornerstone for many international professionals seeking U.S. permanent residency. Get Wisa provides a comprehensive guide to the I-140 process in 2026, detailing eligibility, the crucial role of PERM certification, required documentation, employer responsibilities, and the subsequent steps towards Adjustment of Status or consular processing.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Average PERM Processing Time | 503 days | [↓ ~5%] |
| PWD Processing Time | 3-4 months | [Stable] |
| New Form I-129 Mandatory | April 2026 | [New Requirement] |
| $100K Fee Applicability | Consular Processing ONLY | [Clarification] |
| Total PERM Records (Wisa DB) | 283,422 | [↑ 7%] |
Our analysis of DOL data shows that employers who consistently sponsor H-1B visas often have a more streamlined process for I-140 filings. This suggests that companies with established immigration practices are better equipped to navigate the PERM and I-140 stages efficiently.
When evaluating potential I-140 sponsors, look beyond just the job offer. Use Get Wisa to research their historical PERM filing success rates and average processing times. This data provides crucial insights into their experience and efficiency.
The I-140 Immigrant Petition is a pivotal step in the employment-based green card process. In 2026, the average PERM processing time remains a significant factor, often taking around 503 days. This extended timeline underscores the importance of employers initiating the process promptly.
The mandatory implementation of the new Form I-129 in April 2026 affects all employers filing petitions. It's also important to clarify that the $100K fee is applicable only to consular processing, not for F-1 OPT Change of Status applications. Understanding these nuances is key to navigating the green card journey effectively.
Companies like Amazon, with 55,150 H-1B filings, and Microsoft, with 34,626, consistently demonstrate robust sponsorship capabilities, often translating to successful I-140 filings. Their established immigration departments are adept at managing the PERM and I-140 processes.
These large employers, along with many mid-sized companies, utilize their experience to navigate the complexities of PERM certification and subsequent I-140 petitions, providing a pathway to permanent residency for their sponsored employees.
Q: What is the first step before filing an I-140 Immigrant Petition?
A: For most employment-based categories, the first step is obtaining a certified PERM labor certification from the Department of Labor, which can take an average of 503 days.
Q: How long does the I-140 petition itself take to process?
A: Standard I-140 processing times vary by service center and caseload, but Premium Processing offers a 15-business-day adjudication for eligible petitions at an additional cost.
Q: Does the new Form I-129 affect I-140 filings in 2026?
A: Yes, the mandatory use of the new Form I-129 starting April 2026 applies to all employers filing petitions, including I-140s, requiring updated procedures and documentation.
Q: What is the difference between Adjustment of Status and Consular Processing after I-140 approval?
A: Adjustment of Status (AOS) is for those already in the U.S. legally, while Consular Processing is for those outside the U.S. The $100K fee applies only to consular processing.
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →For most employment-based categories, the first step is obtaining a certified PERM labor certification from the Department of Labor, which can take an average of 503 days.
Standard I-140 processing times vary by service center and caseload, but Premium Processing offers a 15-business-day adjudication for eligible petitions at an additional cost.
Yes, the mandatory use of the new Form I-129 starting April 2026 applies to all employers filing petitions, including I-140s, requiring updated procedures and documentation.
Adjustment of Status (AOS) is for those already in the U.S. legally, while Consular Processing is for those outside the U.S. The $100K fee applies only to consular processing.