H-1B to Green Card Timeline: PERM and Beyond

Moving from H-1B status to permanent residence is a multi-step process that requires planning with your employer and legal team.

In most cases, the first major stage is PERM labor certification, where the employer tests the U.S. labor market and documents recruitment.

After PERM approval, the employer files Form I-140. Depending on your category and country of chargeability, you may file adjustment of status when your priority date is current.

Timing depends on wage determination, recruitment, government processing, and visa bulletin movement.

Because mistakes can lead to re-filing and status risk, it is critical to track expiration dates, maintain valid nonimmigrant status, and keep job role details consistent across filings.