The PERM process is the first step for many employment-based green card applications. It allows U.S. employers to sponsor foreign workers for permanent residence, provided they can demonstrate there are no qualified U.S. workers available for the role.
Employer must conduct good faith recruitment and find no qualified U.S. workers
Position must be full-time and permanent
Beneficiary must meet all job requirements
Employer must be able to pay the offered wage
Detailed job description and minimum requirements
Proof of recruitment efforts (ads, interview logs)
Prevailing wage determination from DOL
Labor Certification Application (ETA 9089)
Employer financials (to show ability to pay wage)
Beneficiary’s credentials, degrees, and work experience letters
PERM Certification (DOL): 8–10 months
I-140 Immigrant Petition: 6–12 months (premium available)
Adjustment of Status (I-485): Varies by priority date; generally 12–24 months
PERM (DOL): No fee
Form I-140 Filing Fee: $700
Premium Processing (optional for I-140): $2,805
Adjustment of Status (Form I-485): $1,140 + $85 biometrics
