PERM Backlog Reduction Act of 2026
Term Dictionary
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- Congress.gov Legislative Glossary - Comprehensive congressional terms
- NVFC Congressional Terms Glossary - Concise, easy-to-understand definitions
The gist
Creates an optional $1,200 premium processing fee that forces the Department of Labor to approve employer green card labor certifications within 30 days.
Who wins, who loses
- Wins: employers hiring skilled foreign workers, immigrants stuck in green card backlogs, tech and healthcare industries.
- Loses: small employers who can't afford the fee; critics who say faster foreign hiring hurts US worker wages.
What it does
- Sets a $1,200 fee for expedited processing of PERM form ETA-9089, adjusted yearly for inflation starting 2028.
- Requires Labor Department to process paid forms within 30 days, or 15 days after an information request.
- Deposits fees into a new 'DOL PERM Premium Processing Fee Account' for staffing, training, and fraud detection.
- Waives Administrative Procedure Act and Paperwork Reduction Act rules to speed rollout.
Why should I care?
Supporters say current backlogs trap skilled immigrants for years and hurt US competitiveness in tech and medicine. Critics argue speeding up foreign labor certifications undercuts American workers and wages, and worry about skipping normal rulemaking safeguards. The bill has bipartisan sponsors, which is rare on immigration. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.