The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) recently updated its processing times for Prevailing Wage Determinations (PWDs) and PERM Labor Certification applications. As of June 30, 2026, the DOL reported the following processing times for PWDs, while the most recent PERM processing update was issued on August 7, 2026.

Understanding these processing times is important for employers and foreign workers planning employment-based immigration sponsorship, particularly when PERM is required for the employment-based green card process.

Prevailing Wage Determination (PWD) Processing Times

As of June 30, 2026, the DOL’s National Prevailing Wage Center (NPWC) reported the following processing times:

• OEWS Wage Requests: The NPWC is currently processing PWD requests filed in April 2026.
• Non-OEWS Wages, Including Private Wage Surveys: The NPWC is processing requests filed in March 2026.
• PWD Redetermination Requests: The NPWC is reviewing redetermination requests filed in April 2026.

These processing times represent the DOL’s current workload and are subject to change. Individual cases may be completed sooner or take longer depending on the circumstances of the request.

At Reddy Neumann Brown PC, we typically see PWDs issued in approximately three months on average.

PERM Labor Certification Processing Times

As of August 7, 2026, the DOL is processing PERM applications filed in September 2025, with an average processing time of approximately 372 days, or a little over one year.

The DOL also reported the following processing times for PERM-related matters:

• PERM Audits: The DOL is reviewing audit responses for cases filed in December 2025. Cases selected for audit generally require additional processing time beyond the standard PERM processing period.
• Reconsideration Requests: The DOL is processing reconsideration requests filed in March 2026.

At Reddy Neumann Brown PC, we continue to see PERM approvals for non-audited cases averaging approximately 12 months, which is generally consistent with the DOL’s reported processing times.

What Do These Processing Times Mean for Employers and Foreign Workers?

Although PERM processing times have improved from some of the longer delays previously seen, processing times remain an important consideration when planning an employment-based immigration case.

Long processing times can affect:

• Immigration planning: Employers and foreign workers must account for government processing times when establishing green card timelines.
• H-1B and other nonimmigrant status planning: Delays in the PERM process can become particularly significant for foreign workers approaching the end of their available H-1B time.
• Hiring and workforce planning: Employers sponsoring foreign workers should begin the PERM process early to avoid unnecessary delays.
• Overall green card timelines: The PERM process is only one step in the employment-based green card process, and additional processing is required after PERM approval.

Because DOL processing times can change, employers should regularly monitor updates and work with immigration counsel to evaluate how current processing times may affect individual cases.

Are There Alternatives to the PERM Process?

Not every employment-based green card category requires PERM labor certification. Depending on the foreign national’s qualifications and circumstances, alternative immigration options may be available.

For example, some individuals may qualify for:

• EB-1A Extraordinary Ability: This category does not require employer sponsorship or PERM labor certification and may be available to individuals who can demonstrate extraordinary ability in their field.
• EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW): Qualified individuals may be able to pursue an EB-2 green card without employer sponsorship or the PERM labor certification process if they meet the requirements for a National Interest Waiver.

These alternatives are highly fact-specific, and eligibility depends on the individual’s qualifications and circumstances.

Plan Ahead for the PERM Process

The PERM process involves multiple steps, including obtaining a prevailing wage determination and completing the required recruitment before the PERM application can be filed. Delays at any stage can affect the overall immigration timeline.

For employers and foreign workers, early planning is essential. Starting the PERM process as soon as appropriate, monitoring DOL processing times, and evaluating potential alternative immigration strategies can help minimize unnecessary delays and provide greater predictability throughout the green card process.

If you have questions about current PERM processing times, prevailing wage determinations, or whether an alternative employment-based immigration option may be available, Reddy Neumann Brown PC can help evaluate your options and develop an immigration strategy based on your circumstances.

For over 25 years, Reddy Neumann Brown PC has focused solely on U.S. employment-based immigration, and works with employers to establish best practices when navigating the PERM labor certification process. If you are in need of a U.S. work visa or permanent residency, speak with one of our immigration lawyers. Please contact us online, call our Houston business immigration office directly at 713-953-7787 or schedule a consultation.

By: Jessica Palarca

Jessica Palarca is an attorney in Reddy & Neumann’s PERM Labor Certification Department where she assists clients in the beginning stages of the green card process.