The time it takes to get a green card after PERM approval can vary. On average, it can take anywhere from several months to a few years, depending on factors such as visa category, country of origin, and other individual circumstances.
For those who require additional information
The timeline for obtaining a green card after PERM (Program Electronic Review Management) approval can vary significantly depending on various factors. While the initial answer provided a general timeframe, we’ll dive deeper into the topic and provide more detailed information.
The processing time for a green card after PERM approval depends on several key factors, including the individual’s visa category, country of origin, and overall demand for green cards. It is worth noting that there is no fixed timeline, and each case is unique. However, let’s explore some interesting facts and considerations related to this topic:
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Variations in Visa Categories: Different visa categories, such as employment-based preferences (EB-2 and EB-3), family-based preferences (F1, F2A, F2B, F3, and F4), diversity visa (DV), or other specific immigrant visa categories, may have varying processing times for obtaining a green card.
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Priority Dates and Visa Availability: The priority date is the date on which the PERM labor certification application was originally filed with the Department of Labor. Visa availability depends on the applicant’s preference category and country of origin. The priority date must be current in order to proceed with the green card application.
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Visa Bulletin Updates: The U.S. Department of State releases a monthly Visa Bulletin that provides information on visa availability for different preference categories and countries. This bulletin indicates the priority dates that are currently being processed, allowing applicants to track the progress of their green card applications.
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Backlogs and Priority Date Retrogression: Sometimes, there may be a backlog or retrogression in visa availability due to high demand or statutory limitations. In such cases, even after PERM approval, applicants may experience delays before being able to apply for a green card.
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Additional Steps in the Process: After PERM approval, the individual must file an Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker (Form I-140) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The processing time for this form can vary, ranging from several months to over a year, depending on various factors, including USCIS workload and individual circumstances.
To provide a comprehensive overview, here is a table summarizing the average processing times for each step of the green card application process:
| Steps in the Green Card Application Process | Average Processing Time |
|---|---|
| PERM Application | Several months |
| Immigrant Petition (Form I-140) | Several months to over a year |
| Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing | Several months to a few years |
| Issuance of Green Card | Several weeks |
While this table provides a general idea, it is crucial to note that individual cases may vary, and these processing times are subject to change based on various factors, including government policies, workload, and unforeseen circumstances.
To quote Albert Einstein on the topic of patience – which is often required during the green card application process – “Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.” This quote emphasizes the importance of staying persistent and optimistic while navigating the complexities of the immigration system.
In conclusion, the processing time for obtaining a green card after PERM approval can range from several months to a few years, depending on factors such as visa category, country of origin, and individual circumstances. It is crucial for applicants to stay informed, track their priority dates, and be prepared for potential delays or backlogs in the visa availability. Patience and perseverance are key when aspiring to obtain a green card in the United States.
Here are some other answers to your question
The PERM processing time in 2023 takes at least six months from the time it was filed if certain conditions are met. It typically takes at least a couple of years for a foreign worker to obtain a U.S. green card through an employer, and the usual process involves three steps, including successfully completing the permanent labor certification on behalf of the foreign worker (referred to as the PERM process). The Green Card processing time depends on the type of Green Card you are applying for, the location of the processing office and other factors, and it takes 7 to 33 months to process a Green Card application.
See the answer to “How long does it take to get green card after PERM approval?” in this video
Gabriella Agostinelli from Berardi Immigration Law presents information about the current delays in the processing of employment-based green card applications, specifically focusing on the PERM Process. Processing times are currently lengthy, with the initial step of the green card process taking approximately 17 to 20 months. Based on this timeline, individuals in H-1B status should begin the process by their third year, while those in L-1B status should start by their second year. Starting early is crucial to avoid employment gaps or having to leave the United States. Agostinelli also mentions that the Department of Labor acknowledges the backlog and is seeking approval for additional employees to expedite processing times. For further assistance and clarification regarding the green card process and timing implications, Berardi Immigration Law is available to provide guidance.