DOL Updates PERM Processing Times February 2026: Latest Prevailing Wage and Audit Details
- XAVIO
- 23 hours ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 8 hours ago
By Xavio
Published: 2026-02-12
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has released its most recent processing times update for PERM (Program Electronic Review Management) labor certifications and prevailing wage determinations (PWDs) as of February 9, 2026. These updates are critical for employers sponsoring foreign workers through employment-based green cards, as they impact timeline planning for recruitment, filings, and overall permanent residency processes.
According to the official data from the DOL's Foreign Labor Application Gateway (FLAG) system, the agency continues to manage significant workloads across analyst reviews, audits, and prevailing wage requests.
Key PERM Processing Times February 2026 Highlights
Analyst Review: DOL is conducting analyst reviews for PERM applications filed in September 2024 or earlier.
Audit Review: Audit reviews are underway for PERM applications filed in June 2025 or earlier.
Reconsideration Requests: The agency is processing reconsideration requests submitted in September 2025 or earlier.
Center Director Reviews: PERM Center Director Reviews from August 2025 are being handled.
These timelines indicate that standard (non-audited) PERM cases filed around late 2024 remain under active review, while more recent filings from mid-2025 are entering audit queues if selected.
Prevailing Wage Determination (PWD) Updates
DOL's National Prevailing Wage Center (NPWC) reported the following issuance dates as of February 9, 2026:
PERM PWD Requests:
OEWS-based requests: Processing and issuing for filings from November 2025.
Non-OEWS requests: Processing and issuing for filings from October 2025.
H-1B PWD Requests: Both OEWS-based and non-OEWS requests from November 2025 are being processed.
Redeterminations: PERM and H-1B prevailing wage redeterminations requested in October 2025 are under review.
PERM Center Director Reviews: Ongoing for requests from August 2025.
Employers should note that PWD processing has shown some progress for recent OEWS filings, but backlogs persist for complex or non-OEWS cases.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, refer to the official DOL source: Processing Times | Flag.dol.gov.
Additional insights and tracking can be found on immigration updates site: visasupdate.com.
Why These PERM Processing Times February 2026 Matter
Delays in PERM and PWD stages can extend the overall employment-based green card timeline significantly, often 18–24 months or more from PWD request to certification. Employers are advised to start the process early, monitor the FLAG system monthly, and prepare for potential audits, which can add substantial time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the current average PERM processing time?
A: While specific averages vary, recent DOL data shows analyst reviews taking around 500–512 days for recent issuances, with actual times depending on filing date, audit status, and case complexity.
Q: How long does a prevailing wage determination take?
A: As of February 2026, OEWS-based PERM PWDs are processing requests from November 2025 (roughly 3–4 months lag), while non-OEWS lag further. Plan for 4–7 months conservatively.
Q: Where can I check my PERM case status?
A: Use the DOL FLAG system dashboard or consult your immigration attorney. Official updates are posted monthly on the DOL website.
Q: What if my PERM is audited?
A: Audits extend processing significantly; DOL is reviewing audits from June 2025 or earlier as of February 9, 2026.
Q: Are there ways to expedite PERM or PWD?
A: Standard requests have no premium processing; however, accurate filings and complete documentation can help avoid delays or RFEs.
Stay informed on immigration trends by bookmarking reliable sources and checking updates regularly. For personalized advice, consult a qualified immigration professional.
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