PERM case status refers to the current status of a Permanent Employment Certification application filed with the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). PERM is an important step in many employment-based green card processes because it allows an employer to seek labor certification for a foreign worker.
The DOL now provides a FLAG Case Status Search where users can check eligible PERM cases using the case number.
Quick Information
| Information | Details |
| Program | PERM |
| Agency | U.S. Department of Labor |
| Current online system | FLAG |
| Form | ETA Form 9089 |
| Search method | PERM case number |
| Case status | Available online |
| Purpose | Check application progress |
| Older cases | Separate system may apply |
What Is a PERM Case?
PERM stands for Program Electronic Review Management. It is the Department of Labor’s permanent labor certification process.
A PERM labor certification allows an employer to seek certification for a foreign worker for permanent employment in the United States.
The PERM process is generally employer-driven, meaning the employer files the application rather than the foreign worker independently filing it.
How to Check PERM Case Status
For PERM applications processed through the current FLAG system, the DOL provides an online Case Status Search.
Step-by-Step
- Go to the DOL’s FLAG Case Status Search.
- Enter the complete PERM case number.
- Include the dashes in the case number.
- Complete the site’s verification requirement.
- Submit the search.
- Review the available case status.
The FLAG system allows users to enter up to 30 case numbers at a time.
What Information Do You Need?
The most important information is your PERM case number.
The DOL states that the full case number, including dashes, can be entered into the FLAG Case Status Search.
If you do not have the case number, you may need to contact the employer or immigration attorney handling the PERM filing.
Common PERM Case Statuses
The exact wording displayed can vary, but a PERM case can move through different stages during processing.
Submitted
The application has been submitted to the Department of Labor.
In Process
The application is being processed by the DOL.
Certified
The DOL has approved the labor certification.
A certified PERM can then be used as part of the employer’s broader employment-based immigration process.
Denied
The application was not approved.
The reasons for a denial depend on the specific case.
Audit Review
The application has been selected for additional review or an audit process.
An audited case can require additional documentation from the employer.
Reconsideration
An employer may pursue reconsideration when permitted under the applicable rules after an adverse decision.
How Long Does PERM Processing Take?
PERM processing times change regularly.
The DOL’s July 2026 processing update showed that PERM cases in Analyst Review were being processed around July 2025 priority dates, while cases in Audit Review were around December 2025. The reported average processing time for PERM determinations in June 2026 was 403 calendar days, while the average for Audit Review was 290 calendar days.
These are processing averages and queue dates, not guarantees for an individual case. The DOL specifically notes that actual processing times can vary depending on the circumstances of each application.
Why Is My PERM Case Taking So Long?
PERM processing can take considerable time because the DOL must review applications and, in some cases, conduct additional review.
Possible reasons for delays include:
- Large processing backlogs
- Audit selection
- Additional review
- Requests for information
- Case-specific issues
- Reconsideration proceedings
- Administrative processing
A case taking longer than another case does not automatically mean there is a problem.
What If My PERM Case Was Filed Before May 31, 2023?
This is important for older PERM cases.
The current FLAG Case Status Search states that PERM applications filed before May 31, 2023 should be checked through the older PLC system rather than the current FLAG search.
Therefore, entering an older case into the current system may not provide the expected result.
What If My Case Number Does Not Work?
If the search does not return your case, check:
- Case number spelling
- Dashes in the case number
- Whether the case was filed through FLAG
- Filing date
- Whether you are using the correct DOL system
For recently submitted FLAG applications, there can also be a short period before the permanent case number becomes available. The DOL says cases generally remain in the pre-submitted phase for less than 15 minutes before the official case number becomes available.
Does PERM Approval Mean the Green Card Is Approved?
No.
PERM certification is one part of an employment-based immigration process. It does not itself grant permanent residence.
After PERM certification, the employer may need to proceed with the next immigration steps, which can involve an immigrant visa petition and, depending on the worker’s circumstances, adjustment of status or consular processing.
The overall timeline can therefore be much longer than the PERM processing period.
PERM vs. PWD
These terms are sometimes confused.
PWD (Prevailing Wage Determination) establishes the applicable wage information for a position under the DOL process.
PERM is the permanent labor certification application.
A PWD is therefore related to the PERM process but is not the same thing as the PERM application itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check my PERM case status?
Use the DOL’s FLAG Case Status Search and enter your complete PERM case number, including the dashes.
Is PERM case status available online?
Yes. The DOL provides online status searching for PERM applications processed through FLAG.
What if my PERM was filed before May 31, 2023?
The DOL directs users to the older PLC system for PERM applications filed before May 31, 2023.
How long does PERM take in 2026?
Processing times change. As of the DOL’s July 2026 update, the average PERM determination processing time reported for June 2026 was 403 calendar days.
What does PERM certified mean?
It means the Department of Labor has certified the permanent labor certification application. It does not by itself mean that the worker has received a green card.
Can I check someone else’s PERM case?
The FLAG Case Status Search is designed to search by case number. Having a valid case number is therefore important when checking a specific application.
Final Takeaway
Checking a PERM case status is relatively straightforward when you have the correct DOL case number. For current cases, the FLAG Case Status Search is the main online tool, while older PERM applications filed before May 31, 2023 may require the older PLC system.
Because PERM processing times can change significantly, use the DOL’s current processing-time information rather than relying on old estimates.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not immigration or legal advice. PERM requirements, processing times, case procedures, and immigration rules can change. For an individual immigration case, consult a qualified immigration attorney or the appropriate government agency.
