I-140 Processing Times in March 2026: 4.5 to 22.5 Months

Form I-140, the Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, is a critical step in the employment-based Green Card process, establishing a foreign worker's eligibility for permanent residence. As of March 2026, processing times for this form vary widely, ranging from approximately 4.5 to 22.5 months depending on the service center and petition category. For EB-3 applicants — including skilled workers, professionals, and unskilled workers — the I-140 represents one of the earliest and most foundational steps in the immigration journey. Delays at this stage can push back an applicant's priority date and overall timeline significantly. Immigration attorneys recommend submitting complete and accurate documentation at the time of filing to minimize the risk of Requests for Evidence (RFEs), which are a common source of processing delays. Filing early, before visa numbers become available, is also advised to avoid bottlenecks once a priority date becomes current. Applicants can monitor their case status through the USCIS online portal and should ensure their employer's attorney has submitted all required supporting evidence, including labor certifications and proof of qualifications, to support a smooth adjudication process.