The first step is for your employer to file a PERM labor certification with the Department of Labor. This proves there are no qualified U.S. workers available for the position you hold.

After the PERM is approved, your employer can file Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker) on your behalf. Once that’s approved and your priority date is current, you can apply for adjustment of status (Form I-485).

You must remain in valid nonimmigrant status while the process is underway. It's also important to track your visa category’s priority date through the monthly Visa Bulletin to know when you're eligible to file the final step.