🇺🇸 USA
Eb-3 Greencard
Program.

You need a permanent full-time job offer, meeting either: (a) skilled worker (with at least 2 years of training or experience), (b) professional (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent), or (c) other workers (unskilled) for low-skill roles.

It’s the first major step where the employer shows there’s no willing, qualified, and available U.S. worker for the role. Employer must meet DOL requirements, advertising, etc.

Usually 10-12 months, sometimes longer if the case is audited.

After PERM approval, employer files Form I-140 with USCIS. With standard processing this takes about 6-9 months, and with premium processing (if eligible) about 15 calendar days.

The priority date is the date when your PERM is filed. You must wait for that date to become “current” in the Visa Bulletin to proceed to the next stage (e.g., adjustment or consular processing).

• Adjustment of Status is for those already in the U.S. and eligible to file Form I-485.

• Consular Processing is for those outside the U.S., applying through a U.S. Embassy/Consulate. Both take ~6-12 months.

Country of origin (backlog), USCIS/DOL workload, whether there are RFEs or audits, and whether premium processing is used.

Yes, for the I-140 petition stage. Premium processing guarantees faster adjudication (15 days) for an extra USCIS fee.

You’ll receive your card either via mail (if in the U.S.) or after you enter the U.S. via immigrant visa (if abroad). Then you can work permanently and later apply for citizenship if eligible.