I-140 Premium Processing is one of the fastest ways for employment-based green card applicants to speed up their immigration timeline. Many employers and foreign workers choose this service because it offers a guaranteed review time, reduces waiting periods, and makes the overall process more predictable. If you are planning an employment-based petition, learning how I-140 Premium Processing works can help you make smarter decisions for your case.

What Is I-140 Premium Processing?

I-140 Premium Processing is an optional service offered by USCIS that allows petitioners to receive expedited processing of their Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers. By paying an additional government fee, employers can request a 15-calendar-day review of the petition. This makes it extremely useful for individuals who need faster approval for work authorization, H-1B extensions, or priority date planning.

USCIS provides one of three responses within the 15-day window: an approval, a request for evidence (RFE), or a notice of intent to deny (NOID). If USCIS issues an RFE or NOID, a new 15-day clock begins once the response is submitted.

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Benefits of Using I-140 Premium Processing

There are several advantages to choosing I-140 Premium Processing:

1. Faster Decisions
   The primary benefit is speed. Instead of waiting several months, employers receive a decision within 15 days.

2. Better Planning for Adjustment of Status
   A quick I-140 approval helps applicants understand their priority date and plan for filing Form I-485.

3. H-1B Extensions and Portability
   A timely I-140 approval can support H-1B extensions beyond the six-year limit and provide more stability for employees.

4. Reduced Uncertainty
   Employers and applicants can make business or relocation decisions with confidence, thanks to the predictable review period.

Cost and Eligibility Requirements

To request I-140 Premium Processing, employers must file Form I-907 along with the appropriate fee. USCIS currently allows Premium Processing for most I-140 categories, including EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3 petitions. However, Premium Processing can only be requested by the employer or their attorney, not the beneficiary.

It is also important to understand that Premium Processing does not guarantee approval. It only guarantees faster processing. USCIS may still issue an RFE or NOID if additional evidence is needed.Should You Use I-140 Premium Processing?

Choosing I-140 Premium Processing depends on your goals. If you need to extend your H-1B status, change jobs under AC21 portability, or plan your adjustment of status filing, Premium Processing can be a valuable investment. For employers who want to onboard talent quickly, it helps streamline timelines and avoids long delays.

Conclusion

I-140 Premium Processing is an effective way to accelerate the employment-based green card process. With a guaranteed 15-day response time, it offers speed, clarity, and better planning opportunities for both employers and foreign professionals. By understanding how I-140 Premium Processing works, who qualifies, and the benefits it provides, applicants can take control of their immigration journey with confidence. If timing is critical, choosing this expedited service can make the entire process smoother and more predictable.