Navigating the I-140 process, employer requirements, and the path to U.S. permanent residency.
The I-140 Immigrant Petition is a critical step towards obtaining a U.S. Green Card. Get Wisa provides a comprehensive guide to the I-140 process in 2026, detailing eligibility, employer sponsorship responsibilities, the role of PERM and PWD, and leveraging data to understand sponsorship trends.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| PERM Processing Time (Average) | 503 days | [Data not available] |
| PWD Processing Time (Average) | 3-4 months | [Data not available] |
| Total PERM Records in Wisa Database | 283,422 | [Data not available] |
| Total PWD Records in Wisa Database | 227,820 | [Data not available] |
| Top H-1B Filing Companies (Nationwide) | Amazon: 55,150 | [Data not available] |
| Top H-1B Filing Companies (Nationwide) | Microsoft: 34,626 | [Data not available] |
Understanding the I-140 sponsorship landscape requires looking beyond just the petition itself. Our analysis of DOL data, including 283,422 PERM records, shows that employers with a high volume of PERM filings (like those sponsoring H-1B visas, e.g., Amazon with 55,150 in 2026) are typically well-equipped to handle the I-140 process, suggesting a higher probability of successful sponsorship.
When preparing for I-140 sponsorship, ensure meticulous documentation for the PERM stage. Given the 503-day average PERM processing time in 2026, starting early and ensuring all requirements are met can prevent further delays and strengthen your petition.
The I-140 Immigrant Petition is a critical gateway to U.S. permanent residency, requiring a sponsoring employer. The process often begins with PERM labor certification, which averaged 503 days in 2026. Employers with a strong history of H-1B sponsorship, such as Amazon (55,150 filings in 2026) and Microsoft (34,626 filings), typically have the infrastructure and experience to navigate both PERM and I-140 requirements effectively.
The PWD (Prevailing Wage Determination) process, taking 3-4 months, is another key step preceding PERM. Understanding these timelines is essential for both employers and employees. While I-140 Premium Processing is not available in 2026, focusing on a well-prepared PERM application, supported by robust employer data from sources like Get Wisa's 283,422 PERM records, is paramount.
Examples illustrating the I-140 sponsorship process, focusing on employer capacity:
Q: What is the first step before filing an I-140 petition?
A: For most employment-based categories, the first step is obtaining a certified PERM labor certification from the Department of Labor, which averaged 503 days in 2026.
Q: How long does PERM processing take on average?
A: PERM processing averaged 503 days in 2026. This includes PWD determination (3-4 months) and the recruitment phase.
Q: Can I file an I-140 without PERM?
A: Yes, certain categories like EB-1 and EB-2 National Interest Waivers do not require PERM. However, most EB-2 and EB-3 positions do require it.
Q: How can I find employers with a good I-140 sponsorship history?
A: Analyze employer H-1B and PERM filing volumes on platforms like Get Wisa. Companies with high filing numbers often have established sponsorship processes.
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 averaged 503 days in 2026.
PERM processing averaged 503 days in 2026. This includes PWD determination (3-4 months) and the recruitment phase.
Yes, certain categories like EB-1 and EB-2 National Interest Waivers do not require PERM. However, most EB-2 and EB-3 positions do require it.
Analyze employer H-1B and PERM filing volumes on platforms like Get Wisa. Companies with high filing numbers often have established sponsorship processes.