Updated June 2026

Form I-140 Processing Time 2026

Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers

The I-140 is filed by a US employer to sponsor a foreign national employee for a green card based on employment.

Current processing range
4–48months

Premium processing (I-907, $2,805) guarantees a decision within 15 business days. Without premium processing, I-140 can take 4-12 months at USCIS.

Processing time by service center

Service CenterReceipt PrefixTypical Range
CSCWAC4–10 monthsDetails →
VSCEAC4–8 monthsDetails →
NSCLIN4–8 monthsDetails →
TSCSRC5–12 monthsDetails →
NBCMSC6–14 monthsDetails →
PSCIOE4–10 monthsDetails →

* Ranges are approximate. Exact times vary by case type, visa category, and current workload. Check egov.uscis.gov/processing-times for your specific case.

How to check your Form I-140 case status

  1. Find your receipt number on Form I-797C (Notice of Action). It starts with 3 letters (WAC, EAC, LIN, SRC, MSC, or IOE) followed by numbers.
  2. Visit my.uscis.gov and enter your receipt number in the case status tool.
  3. Got a confusing status message? Paste it into GreenLight's decoder for a plain-English explanation.
  4. Check the official processing times at egov.uscis.gov/processing-times to see if your case is outside normal time.
Community dataSee how real applicants' Form I-140 wait times compare to the published ranges.Form guideForm I-140 instructions, checklist, and filing tips.

Frequently asked questions

How long does I-140 take in 2026?+
Standard I-140 processing takes 4-12 months. With premium processing ($2,805), USCIS guarantees a decision within 15 business days. Premium is available for EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3 categories.
Can I change jobs while waiting for I-140 approval?+
While I-140 is pending, you're tied to the sponsoring employer. After I-140 approval and if you've been in adjustment of status for 180+ days with an approved I-140, job portability may allow changing employers in the same or similar occupation.
What is premium processing for I-140?+
Premium processing (Form I-907) costs $2,805 and guarantees a 15 business day decision. If USCIS doesn't act within 15 business days, they refund the fee. Most employers use it when visa status deadlines are approaching.
Does approved I-140 guarantee a green card?+
No. I-140 approval means you meet the qualifications. You still need a visa number to become available (for preference categories like EB-2 or EB-3) and then file I-485 or go through consular processing.
Can I keep my I-140 priority date if I change employers?+
Yes, in most cases. An approved I-140 can be revoked by the employer, but if it was approved more than 180 days ago, your priority date is generally protected even if the employer withdraws the petition.

Related forms

Form I-485 Processing Time →Form I-765 Processing Time →

Got a USCIS status update on your Form I-140? Paste it in and we'll explain what it means in plain English.

Decode your status message →

GreenLight is an independent tool and is NOT affiliated with USCIS, DHS, or any US government agency. Nothing on this page constitutes legal advice. Always verify at my.uscis.gov.