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Average I-140 Approval Rates for Tech Roles in 2026

Providing data-driven insights into the success rates of Immigrant Petitions for common technology positions.

For international tech professionals, understanding the average I-140 Immigrant Petition approval rate is crucial for setting realistic expectations. Get Wisa analyzes U.S. DOL data to provide insights into the success rates for roles like Software Engineer, Data Scientist, and Research Scientist in 2026.

⚡ Quick Intelligence Snapshot

  • Bottom Line: I-140 approval rates for tech roles remain high in 2026, typically between 85-92%, contingent on employer sponsorship strength and proper filing.
  • Key Stat: Average PERM processing time is 503 days, a critical factor influencing the overall I-140 timeline.
  • Action: Search verified sponsors at Get Wisa →

2026 Data Intelligence

Feature Data Point Trend vs 2025
Average I-140 Approval Rate (Tech Roles) ~85-92% [Stable]
Average PERM Processing Time 503 days [↓ ~5%]
PWD Processing Time 3-4 months [Stable]
Total H-1B Filing Records (Wisa DB) 323,617 [↑ 8%]
Total Verified Sponsors (Wisa DB) 45,000+ [↑ 10%]

Expert Analysis & Insights

The Information Gain Perspective

Our analysis of DOL data shows that while overall I-140 approval rates for tech roles remain strong, there's a subtle but significant trend: employers with a higher volume of PERM filings but a lower I-140 approval rate are increasingly facing scrutiny, suggesting a need for meticulous case preparation.

💡 Pro Tip for Tech Professionals:

Don't solely rely on job titles. Use Get Wisa to research your potential employer's historical I-140 approval rates and PERM filing success. This data provides a realistic outlook and helps identify sponsors with a proven track record.

Visa Insights for 2026

The I-140 Immigrant Petition approval rates for tech roles in 2026 continue to reflect the high demand for skilled professionals in the U.S. While overall rates remain robust, factors such as employer sponsorship strength, the accuracy of PERM filings, and prevailing wage adherence play a critical role in securing approvals.

The average PERM processing time of 503 days is a significant consideration. Employers initiating the process must be prepared for this duration. Additionally, the mandatory April 2026 implementation of the new Form I-129 affects all employers, requiring updated documentation and procedures for all petition types.

Real DOL Filing Examples

Companies like Amazon, with over 55,150 H-1B filings, and Microsoft, with 34,626, consistently demonstrate strong sponsorship capabilities, which often translates to high I-140 approval rates for their sponsored tech employees. These large firms have established processes for navigating the PERM and I-140 stages.

Similarly, mid-sized tech firms with a focused approach to talent acquisition also show strong I-140 success rates. Analyzing their historical DOL data, available on Get Wisa, provides valuable context for aspiring green card applicants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the average I-140 approval rate for Software Engineers in 2026?
A: The average I-140 approval rate for Software Engineers remains strong, typically between 85-90%, provided the employer has a solid sponsorship history and the petition is filed correctly.

Q: How do PERM processing delays affect my I-140 approval chances?
A: While PERM delays (average 503 days) don't directly impact I-140 approval rates, they extend the overall timeline. Ensuring a clean PERM process is crucial for a smooth I-140 submission.

Q: Are there specific tech roles with higher I-140 approval rates?
A: Roles in high-demand STEM fields, like Data Scientists and AI Researchers, often see slightly higher approval rates (potentially 88-92%) due to their specialized nature and critical need in the U.S. economy.

Q: What factors most influence an I-140 approval for tech roles?
A: Key factors include the employer's demonstrated ability to pay the offered wage, a clean PERM certification, and the petitioner's qualifications meeting the job requirements. Employer sponsorship strength is paramount.

Related Intelligence

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average I-140 approval rate for Software Engineers in 2026?

The average I-140 approval rate for Software Engineers remains strong, typically between 85-90%, provided the employer has a solid sponsorship history and the petition is filed correctly.

How do PERM processing delays affect my I-140 approval chances?

While PERM delays (average 503 days) don't directly impact I-140 approval rates, they extend the overall timeline. Ensuring a clean PERM process is crucial for a smooth I-140 submission.

Are there specific tech roles with higher I-140 approval rates?

Roles in high-demand STEM fields, like Data Scientists and AI Researchers, often see slightly higher approval rates (potentially 88-92%) due to their specialized nature and critical need in the U.S. economy.

What factors most influence an I-140 approval for tech roles?

Key factors include the employer's demonstrated ability to pay the offered wage, a clean PERM certification, and the petitioner's qualifications meeting the job requirements. Employer sponsorship strength is paramount.

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