With the Department of Labor’s Office of Foreign Labor Certification (OFLC) now operational and once again accepting new submissions and issuing certifications following recent closures, employers and foreign workers can resume moving forward with their employment-based immigration cases. However, while processing has resumed, timelines remain lengthy.
Below is an overview of the latest Prevailing Wage Determination (PWD) and PERM Labor Certification processing times, as issued prior to the October 2025 government shutdown, along with insights on how these delays may affect case strategy and potential alternative options.
Prevailing Wage Determination (PWD) Processing Times
As of September 1, 2025, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) reported the following processing timelines:
- OEWS Wage Requests: The National Prevailing Wage Center (NPWC) is currently processing PWDs filed in May 2025.
- Non-OEWS Wages (including private wage surveys): Processing is at March 2025
- PWD Redetermination Requests: NPWC is reviewing requests filed in May 2025.
These timeframes reflect DOL’s standard processing pace, and individual cases may be completed sooner. At Reddy Neumann Brown PC, we typically see PWDs issued in about four months on average.
PERM Labor Certification Processing Times
DOL is currently processing PERM applications filed in June 2024, with an average processing time of approximately 472 days (about 16 months).
- PERM Audits: The most recent data from December 2024 shows DOL reviewing audits for applications filed in December 2022, averaging 496 days for completion.
- Reconsideration Requests: DOL is processing requests filed in July 2025.
Our firm continues to see 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.
As DOL processing times remain extended, proactive planning is key to avoiding unnecessary delays. Starting the PERM process early and staying informed of current timelines can help employers and employees better manage expectations and maintain immigration status continuity. For personalized guidance or to explore alternative immigration options, please contact Reddy Neumann Brown PC for assistance.
For over 25 years, Reddy Neumann Brown PC 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.
