I-140 Processing Times in June 2026: What to Expect and How to Prevent Delays

Processing times for Form I-140 currently span between 2.5 to 26.5 months. Also known as the immigrant petition for application for alien workers, filing this document marks the first step to obtain an employment-based Green Card.

For many foreign nationals interested in the EB-1 or EB-2, wait times play a huge factor into their decision on an immigration pathway. Knowing how long USCIS takes on average to complete can help you better prepare for the application process, especially if you’re currently in the U.S. on a nonimmigrant visa that will expire soon.

What are the latest processing times for Form I-140?

As of June 2026, USCIS takes between 2.5 to 26.5 months to complete 80% of I-140 applications. Depending on which category you fall under, you may experience longer wait times:

For a greater breakdown, check out our current USCIS processing times guide.

How can I speed up my Form I-140 processing time?

Through premium processing, USCIS allows Form I-140 petitioners to receive a decision in:

• 45 business days for EB-1C Multinational Executives and EB-2 NIW cases, or
• 15 business days for EB-1A, PERM EB-2, and all other I-140 categories. 

Manifest immigration attorney Ana Gabriela Urizar says premium processing can be a huge unlock for those who can afford it. “This option can be especially helpful for those whose underlying status will expire soon, as you won’t have to wait years to file for an adjustment of status,” she says.

What can influence the speed of my Form I-140 filing?

Your filing category

Wait times differ significantly depending on which I-140 category you’re filing under. For example, most EB-2 PERM petitions are adjudicated in around 2.5 months. NIW petitions, on the other hand, often take closer to 26.5 months. 

Before you file, Urizar recommends understanding the average wait time for your category, and setting realistic expectations for yourself (and your employer sponsor, if applicable). If you need a quick decision in your initial I-140 filing, consider opting for premium processing.

Errors and omissions in the I-140 petition

In I-140 petitions, Urizar says that vague job descriptions are one of the most common mistakes. She recommends either writing a thorough addendum on the last page or noting “See support letter” and making sure that letter fully covers the role. 

For self-petitioning NIW applicants, another frequent error is omitting the signed pages of the ETA 9089 labor certification. Both issues invite RFEs that can add months to your wait.

Filing timing relative to PERM expiration

Once USCIS certifies your PERM labor certification, you have a six-month window to file the I-140. Urizar recommends filing well ahead of the deadline rather than waiting until the last few weeks, as any delay in intake puts your PERM certification at risk of expiring. 

Tips to minimize delays in Form I-140

To reduce the risk of avoidable delays, immigration attorney Urizar suggests:

• Organizing documents early: Having the necessary materials already on hand, such as your initial evidence, can mitigate last-minute issues with evidence.
• Submitting forms promptly: This helps decrease the wait time for your I-140 petition. 
• Double-checking before filing: Make sure your I-140 petition has been completed fully and with accurate answers. Consult with an attorney if you have any questions or concerns. 
• Respond quickly to government requests: Requests for evidence should be handled with the utmost urgency, as USCIS will not give you much time to respond. 

“Keep in mind that if you receive your RFE via mail, you are entitled to three additional business days to extend the deadline,” Urizar says “Make sure to write the request on the cover letter and have your attorney cite the regulation.”

How Manifest Law can help

Filing an I-140 petition can feel overwhelming, especially if you don’t feel confident about the strength of your case. Whether you’re gathering evidence or preparing to file, Manifest’s immigration attorneys can guide you through each step required to obtain permanent residence.

If you’re ready to take the next step or need assistance with Form I-140, request a consultation with Manifest today. Our team can help you file for an EB-1 or EB-2 Green Card with confidence and no stress.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if my Form I-140 processing time is taking longer than expected?

Through the e-Request portal, you can check the status of your USCIS case. Before you can file a request, you’ll need to enter your receipt date. The website will then let you know if enough time has passed for you to submit an inquiry.

Are I-140 petitions processed in the order they’re received?

USCIS does not offer guidance in how it orders Form I-140 processing. Several factors could affect this, including case backlogs and the category you’re filing under.

How do I know when my I-140 petition has been approved?

USCIS will issue you an I-797 approval notice. In some cases, you may be able to see an update on your myUSCIS account or through the federal agency’s case status portal. 

How does USCIS calculate processing times for Form I-140?

USCIS calculates Form I-140 processing times by taking the average time 80% of petitions are completed in. Remember that these are estimates, and that your individual wait time may differ due to several factors. 

Are USCIS’s Form I-140 processing times accurate? 

It depends. USCIS processing times can help you estimate how long your I-140 petition may take, but they are not guarantees. The published time frames are based on recently completed cases and can vary by service center and application category. Use them as a general planning tool, not as a promise of when your petition will be adjudicated.

Do I need to file Form I-140 for my EB-5 Green Card?

No, you do not need to file Form I-140 for an EB-5, nor an EB-4. You do, however, need to file Form I-140 for EB-3.