Navigate the lengthy green card process with informed strategies and realistic timelines.
For H-1B applicants pursuing a green card, understanding and strategizing around PERM and PWD processing times is critical. Get Wisa provides an in-depth look at the current 2026 timelines, including the average 503 days for PERM and 3-4 months for PWD, offering actionable advice.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| PERM Processing Time | 503 days (avg) | ↑ ~30 days |
| PWD Processing Time | 3-4 months (avg) | Stable |
| Total Verified Sponsors (Wisa) | 45,000+ | ↑ Growing |
| Total H-1B Filing Records (Wisa) | 323,617 | Stable |
| Total PERM Records (Wisa) | 283,422 | Stable |
Our analysis of DOL data shows that employers with a higher volume of PERM filings often have more streamlined internal processes, potentially leading to faster PWD requests and more consistent application submissions, despite the overall PERM processing time.
When selecting an employer for PERM sponsorship, leverage Get Wisa to identify companies with a high number of PERM filings and a good approval rate. This indicates experience and a higher likelihood of navigating the process successfully, despite the long average wait times.
The path to a green card via PERM for H-1B holders in 2026 involves navigating lengthy processing times. The average PERM application now takes approximately 503 days, a slight increase from previous years. This stage is preceded by obtaining a Prevailing Wage Determination (PWD), which typically takes 3-4 months.
Strategic planning is essential. Applicants should work closely with their employers and immigration counsel to initiate the PERM process as early as possible, ideally once H-1B sponsorship is secured. Understanding these timelines helps manage expectations and plan for the long-term green card journey. Get Wisa's database of over 45,000 verified sponsors can help identify employers with a consistent history of navigating these processes.
Companies with a high volume of PERM filings demonstrate a commitment to sponsoring foreign nationals for permanent residency. These employers are well-versed in the process:
Q: What is the current average processing time for PERM applications in 2026?
A: The average processing time for PERM applications in 2026 is approximately 503 days, showing a slight increase from the previous year.
Q: How long does it take to get a Prevailing Wage Determination (PWD)?
A: Obtaining a Prevailing Wage Determination (PWD) typically takes between 3 to 4 months on average for H-1B related green card processes.
Q: Can H-1B premium processing be used for PERM or PWD?
A: No, premium processing is not available for PERM applications or for the PWD request process. These stages have their own standard processing times.
Q: How can I find employers with a good PERM filing history?
A: Get Wisa's database contains over 283,422 PERM records, allowing you to identify employers with a proven track record of sponsoring green card applications.
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →The average processing time for PERM applications in 2026 is approximately 503 days, showing a slight increase from the previous year.
Obtaining a Prevailing Wage Determination (PWD) typically takes between 3 to 4 months on average for H-1B related green card processes.
No, premium processing is not available for PERM applications or for the PWD request process. These stages have their own standard processing times.
Get Wisa's database contains over 283,422 PERM records, allowing you to identify employers with a proven track record of sponsoring green card applications.