US DOL PERM and Prevailing Wage Determination (PWD) Processing Times – Latest Update for May/June 2026

US DOL PERM processing times May/June 2026

Washington, D.C., June 11, 2026 — The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has released its latest processing times report for PERM labor certification applications and Prevailing Wage Determinations (PWDs). The data, current as of late May and early June 2026, shows continued backlogs in both analyst and audit reviews, while PWD processing remains relatively steady.

Immigration professionals and employers sponsoring foreign workers should plan accordingly, as processing times remain a critical factor in employment-based green card timelines.

Current PERM Processing Times (as of May 31, 2026)

• Analyst Review: Applications filed in April 2025 or earlier

• Audit Review: Applications filed in November 2025 or earlier

• Reconsideration Requests: Requests filed in January 2026 or earlier

These timelines indicate that standard PERM cases filed more than 13 months ago are still under active review, while audited cases from seven months ago are being processed.

Current Prevailing Wage Determination (PWD) Processing Times (as of June 8, 2026)

• Initial PWD Issuance (OEWS-based and non-OEWS): Requests filed in March 2026

• PWD Redeterminations: Requests filed in March 2026

• PERM Center Director Reviews: Requests filed in February 2026

The DOL continues to process PWDs within a reasonable 3-month window for most new requests, providing some predictability for employers preparing PERM filings.

Where to Check the Latest DOL Processing Times

All official reports are available on the Department of Labor’s FLAG (Foreign Labor Application Gateway) system: → DOL FLAG Processing Times Page

Employers and attorneys are advised to check this page regularly, as times can fluctuate based on workload and staffing levels.

Practical Implications for Employers and Foreign Workers

For Employers Sponsoring PERM:

• Expect 12–18+ months from filing to final certification for standard cases.

• Audited cases can take significantly longer.

• Factor in these timelines when planning green card sponsorship and retention strategies.

• Submit applications as early as possible to avoid further delays in the employment-based green card queue.

For Foreign Workers:

• Long PERM processing times can delay adjustment of status (green card) applications.

• Maintain valid nonimmigrant status (H-1B, L-1, etc.) during the entire process.

• Consider premium processing for I-140 where available to accelerate later stages.

Why Processing Times Matter in 2026

With ongoing backlogs in the employment-based visa categories (especially EB-2 and EB-3), delays in PERM and PWD stages directly impact when foreign workers can file for adjustment of status. Employers in tech, healthcare, engineering, and other shortage occupations are particularly affected.

Tips to Navigate Current Backlogs

1. File Early — Submit PERM applications as soon as possible after the prevailing wage is determined.

2. Prepare Strong Applications — Reduce the risk of audit by ensuring complete documentation and clear business necessity.

3. Monitor Your Case — Use the DOL FLAG system and work closely with immigration counsel.

4. Plan for Extensions — Ensure nonimmigrant visas (especially H-1B) are extended well in advance.

5. Consider Alternatives — Explore options like EB-1 (if eligible) or National Interest Waivers to bypass PERM.

Looking Ahead

The DOL has not announced major changes to processing capacity for the second half of 2026. Employers should anticipate similar or slightly improved timelines depending on staffing levels and any new automation initiatives.

For the latest DOL PERM and PWD processing times, detailed guides, PERM filing strategies, and 2026 employment-based green card updates, visit: visasupdate.com/blog/categories/usa