PERM Backlog Reduction Act of 2026

The PERM Backlog Reduction Act of 2026 directs the Department of Labor to create an optional premium processing program for employers seeking permanent labor certifications, a key step in sponsoring foreign workers for green cards. By paying a $1,200 fee, which is adjusted annually for inflation starting in fiscal year 2028, employers can have their applications processed within 30 calendar days, or within 15 days if they submit a request for information on a delayed case. The bill mandates that these fees be deposited into a dedicated Treasury account to cover the costs of staffing, training, fraud detection, and system upgrades necessary to run the program. Additionally, it requires that this expedited service does not slow down the standard processing times for other labor certification forms and allows for streamlined rulemaking procedures to ensure rapid implementation.