Filing I-140 on J visa, 212e applied

I am holding a J-1 visa and it is subject to 2 year home residency requirement. I have not applied for the waiver yet, but I am looking for options. Can I file an I-140 petition now or should I get the waiver first? I want to file my I-140 soon. Can you suggest?

to smallbear467:

You can file I-140 before you get the waiver, but you'll need the waiver for I-485.

to smallbear467:

What's the hurry? Even if you have your I-140 approved, you won't be able to get your GC if you do not have the J waiver. You should check with you embassy first. They'll be able to advise you on the waiver issue.