I-140 Processing Time 2025: Updated Timeline, Delays & Tips for Faster Approval

Introduction to I-140 in the 2025 Immigration Process

The I-140 petition, officially known as the Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, is a crucial step for foreign nationals seeking an employment-based green card in the United States. In 2025, the i-140 processing time 2025 can vary significantly depending on the visa category, USCIS workload, and whether premium processing is used.

Understanding the timeline helps applicants plan for subsequent steps, such as filing Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) or scheduling consular processing abroad.

What is Form I-140 and Why It’s Important

The I-140 serves as proof that:

1. The employer can pay the offered wage.
2. The worker meets the qualifications for the position.
3. The position meets the criteria for the employment-based immigrant category.

Role of I-140 in the Green Card Process

Without an approved I-140, applicants cannot move forward in the green card process. It also establishes the priority date, which determines when you can proceed based on visa availability.

Key Employment-Based Visa Categories Requiring I-140

• EB-1: Priority workers (extraordinary ability, outstanding professors/researchers, multinational executives).
• EB-2: Professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability.
• EB-3: Skilled workers, professionals, and other workers.
• EB-2 NIW: National Interest Waiver applicants (no employer sponsorship required).

Overview of I-140 Processing in 2025

Average Processing Times in 2025

• Regular Processing: 6–12 months on average.
• Premium Processing: 15 calendar days (not business days).
• Some categories may be approved faster depending on service center efficiency.

Premium Processing vs. Regular Processing

Premium processing guarantees a decision within 15 calendar days, but it comes with an additional $2,805 fee (2025 rate). Regular processing does not guarantee a set timeline and can be affected by USCIS backlogs.

Step-by-Step I-140 Process in 2025

Stage 1: PERM Labor Certification (if required)

Most EB-2 and EB-3 cases require PERM approval before filing the I-140. This can add several months to the total timeline.

Stage 2: Preparing the I-140 Petition

The employer (or the applicant in self-petition cases) gathers documentation, including:

• Job offer letter.
• Proof of ability to pay wages.
• Evidence of qualifications.

Stage 3: USCIS Review and Decision

USCIS reviews the application for completeness and eligibility. They may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) if additional information is needed, which can add weeks or months.

I-140 2025 Processing Time by Category

EB-1 Category Timelines

EB-1 petitions often see faster approvals compared to other categories. In 2025:

• Regular Processing: 4–8 months.
• Premium Processing: 15 calendar days.
  Applicants in EB-1A (extraordinary ability) and EB-1B (outstanding professors/researchers) categories may self-petition, which can reduce preparation delays.

EB-2 and EB-3 Category Timelines

EB-2 and EB-3 petitions requiring PERM certification tend to take longer overall because of the preceding labor certification stage.

• Regular Processing: 8–12 months (after PERM).
• Premium Processing: 15 calendar days (after PERM).

National Interest Waiver (NIW) Timelines

NIW cases skip the PERM stage, but USCIS review may be more thorough since applicants must justify the national interest component.

• Regular Processing: 8–11 months.
• Premium Processing: 15 calendar days (introduced in 2023 and still available in 2025).

Factors That Affect I-140 Processing Time in 2025

USCIS Workload and Backlogs

If certain USCIS service centers experience surges in filings, processing may slow. In 2025, some centers like Texas and Nebraska are handling heavier caseloads.

Request for Evidence (RFE) Impact

An RFE can delay approval by several weeks or even months. The applicant must respond within the USCIS deadline (usually 87 days), and the review period restarts after submission.

Common Reasons for I-140 Delays in 2025

• Incomplete or inconsistent documentation.
• Failure to demonstrate the employer’s ability to pay.
• Insufficient evidence of qualifications.
• High volume of filings at certain service centers.

How Premium Processing Works for I-140 in 2025

Cost and Eligibility

• Fee: $2,805 (current 2025 rate).
• Available for most EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, and NIW petitions.

Benefits and Limitations

Benefits:

• Decision in 15 calendar days.
• Reduced uncertainty in planning next steps.

Limitations:

• Does not guarantee approval, only faster adjudication.
• If USCIS issues an RFE, the 15-day clock pauses and resumes after a response.

Tips to Speed Up I-140 Approval in 2025

Early Documentation Preparation

• Gather all supporting evidence well before filing.
• Confirm employer financial documents are up-to-date.

Choosing the Right Filing Center

Filing at a service center with shorter wait times can help, but USCIS typically assigns centers based on workload distribution.

Impact of I-140 Approval on the Immigration Process

Priority Date and Visa Bulletin

Your priority date becomes locked in upon I-140 approval. This date determines when you can file for adjustment of status or consular processing, based on the monthly Visa Bulletin.

Transition to I-485 or Consular Processing

• Inside the U.S.: File I-485 once the priority date is current.
• Outside the U.S.: Proceed with consular processing through the National Visa Center.

Frequently Asked Questions on I-140 Processing 2025

Q1: What is the fastest I-140 can be approved in 2025?
A: With premium processing and no RFEs, approval can come within 15 calendar days.

Q2: Is premium processing worth it?
A: Yes, if you need a quick decision for job mobility, H-1B extensions, or starting the I-485 process.

Q3: Can I file I-485 before I-140 is approved?
A: Only in certain concurrent filing cases when your priority date is current.

Q4: Does I-140 approval mean my green card is guaranteed?
A: No, you must still clear the visa bulletin backlog and complete final processing.

Q5: Can I change employers after I-140 approval?
A: Yes, under AC21 portability rules, but conditions apply.

Q6: How do RFEs affect I-140 timelines?
A: They can add several weeks or months depending on response time and USCIS review.

Conclusion: Navigating I-140 in 2025 for a Smoother Green Card Journey

The i-140 processing time 2025 varies widely depending on your category, service center, and whether you use premium processing. By preparing documents early, minimizing RFE risks, and staying updated on USCIS trends, you can move through this stage faster and with more confidence.

An approved I-140 is a major step toward permanent residency — but it’s also the gateway to priority date management and final status adjustments. Approach it with thorough preparation, and you’ll set yourself up for a smoother green card process in 2025.