Understanding the selection probabilities for H-1B petitions targeting Maryland jobs.
Navigating the H-1B lottery for jobs in Maryland in 2026 requires understanding the odds. Get Wisa breaks down selection probabilities based on wage levels and employer types common in Maryland's tech sector, using the latest DOL data.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Level 1) | ~15% | → (Stable) |
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Level 2) | ~31% | ↑ (Estimated) |
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Level 3) | ~46% | ↑ (Estimated) |
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Level 4) | ~62% | ↑ (Estimated) |
| Total H-1B Filing Records (Wisa DB) | 323,617 | ↑ (Growth) |
| Total PERM Records (Wisa DB) | 283,422 | ↑ (Growth) |
Our analysis of Maryland's DOL data shows that employers offering wages at Level 3 and Level 4 (higher wage tiers) consistently have significantly higher H-1B lottery selection odds, a trend amplified in competitive tech roles prevalent in the state.
When negotiating salary for an H-1B role in Maryland, understand that higher wages directly correlate with better lottery odds. Aim for positions that meet or exceed Level 3 prevailing wage data to improve your chances of selection.
The H-1B lottery odds for Maryland-based jobs in 2026 are heavily influenced by wage levels. For FY2027, the overall selection odds were 35.3%, but this varied dramatically by wage tier: Level 1 had ~15% odds, while Level 4 had ~62% odds.
This data underscores the importance of targeting roles with competitive salaries. Employers in Maryland's tech sector, particularly those in cybersecurity and data analytics, often offer higher wages, thus improving the lottery prospects for their sponsored candidates. The total number of H-1B filings, 323,617, indicates a high volume of applications.
Examples illustrating how wage levels impact H-1B lottery odds for Maryland jobs:
Q: What are the overall H-1B lottery odds for Maryland jobs in 2026?
A: The overall FY2027 H-1B lottery selection odds were approximately 35.3%. However, these odds vary significantly based on the wage level of the position being sponsored.
Q: How do wage levels affect H-1B lottery odds in Maryland?
A: Higher wage levels generally lead to better lottery odds. For FY2027, Level 1 odds were ~15%, while Level 4 odds reached ~62%, indicating a strong correlation.
Q: Are there specific types of Maryland employers with better H-1B lottery odds?
A: Employers offering higher wages, often found in specialized tech roles or senior positions within established companies and research institutions, tend to have better lottery odds for their sponsored candidates.
Q: Does the new Form I-129 impact H-1B lottery odds?
A: The new Form I-129, mandatory from April 2026, affects the application process itself, not the random selection mechanism of the lottery. Lottery odds are primarily determined by the number of registrations versus available visas.
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Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →The overall FY2027 H-1B lottery selection odds were approximately 35.3%. However, these odds vary significantly based on the wage level of the position being sponsored.
Higher wage levels generally lead to better lottery odds. For FY2027, Level 1 odds were ~15%, while Level 4 odds reached ~62%, indicating a strong correlation.
Employers offering higher wages, often found in specialized tech roles or senior positions within established companies and research institutions, tend to have better lottery odds for their sponsored candidates.
The new Form I-129, mandatory from April 2026, affects the application process itself, not the random selection mechanism of the lottery. Lottery odds are primarily determined by the number of registrations versus available visas.