The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced updated processing times for Prevailing Wage Determinations (PWD) and PERM labor certification applications as of August 1, 2025. Understanding these timelines is crucial for employers and foreign workers involved in the employment-based green card process.

Prevailing Wage Determinations (PWD) Processing Times

• The National Prevailing Wage Center (NPWC) is currently processing PWDs filed in April 2025 for OEWS wages.
• For non-OEWS wages, including private wage survey requests, processing is at February 2025
• PWD redetermination requests from February 2025 are also being processed.
• These timeframes represent the DOL’s normal processing periods, meaning some cases may be completed sooner; at Reddy Neumann Brown PC, PWDs typically issue in about 4 months on average.

PERM Processing Times

• DOL is processing PERM applications filed in April 2024, with an average processing time of about 483 days (over 16 months).
• PERM audits are still being processed with no recent updates; last data from December 2024 showed audits for applications filed in December 2022, averaging 496 days
• Reconsideration requests filed in June 2025 are currently under review.
• Our firm sees PERM approvals averaging 15-16 months for non-audited cases, consistent with DOL reports.

Impact of Long Processing Times

• Extended delays in PWD and PERM processing continue to affect foreign workers and employers, potentially disrupting work visa status and hiring plans.
• Early initiation of the PERM process and ongoing monitoring of DOL processing updates are essential for managing timelines effectively.
• Consulting an experienced immigration attorney helps avoid errors and costly delays, ensuring smoother navigation through complex immigration procedures.

Alternative Immigration Options

• Some individuals may qualify for alternatives such as the EB-1A immigrant visa or the National Interest Waiver (NIW), which can bypass lengthy PERM processing.
• Speaking with an immigration lawyer can identify eligibility for these faster pathways.

For over 25 years, Reddy & Neumann, P.C. 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.