Understanding how salary impacts your chances of H-1B selection.
For international professionals navigating the H-1B lottery, understanding the impact of wage levels is critical. Get Wisa provides a data-driven analysis of FY2027 lottery odds, breaking down selection probabilities by salary to offer strategic insights.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| FY2027 Lottery Overall Selection Odds | 35.3% | Stable (based on registration volume) |
| FY2027 Lottery Level 1 Odds | ~15% | ↓ (Lower than higher levels) |
| FY2027 Lottery Level 2 Odds | ~31% | ↓ (Lower than higher levels) |
| FY2027 Lottery Level 3 Odds | ~46% | ↑ (Higher than lower levels) |
| FY2027 Lottery Level 4 Odds | ~62% | ↑ (Higher than lower levels) |
| Total FY2027 Registrations | ~343,981 | ↓ 27% |
Our analysis of the FY2027 H-1B lottery data reveals a clear correlation between higher wage levels (Level 3 and Level 4) and significantly improved selection odds. This suggests that employers offering more competitive salaries for specialized roles are more likely to have their candidates selected, a trend consistent with previous years.
When evaluating H-1B sponsorship opportunities, consider the offered salary in relation to the prevailing wage for the role and location. Higher salaries often translate to better lottery odds. Use Get Wisa to research companies that consistently offer competitive wages and have high filing volumes.
The H-1B lottery system in 2026 continues to favor higher wage levels. For FY2027, the selection odds dramatically increased with each successive wage level. While overall registration numbers dropped by 27%, the disparity in odds between lower and higher wage levels remains a critical factor for applicants. Level 4 positions, representing the highest wage bracket, had approximately 62% selection odds, a stark contrast to the ~15% odds for Level 1 positions. This data underscores the importance of targeting roles that offer competitive compensation.
Employers are incentivized to offer higher wages to increase their candidates' chances of selection. For applicants, this means focusing on roles that align with higher salary bands, which often correspond to more specialized or senior positions. The introduction of the new Form I-129 in April 2026 and the expanded social media vetting (since March 30, 2026) are procedural changes that do not directly alter the wage-level-based odds but are part of the overall application landscape.
The following companies are major H-1B sponsors, and their high filing volumes suggest they are likely offering positions across various wage levels, including those with better lottery odds:
Q: How do H-1B wage levels affect lottery odds in 2026?
A: Higher wage levels significantly improve odds. For FY2027, Level 4 had ~62% odds, while Level 1 had ~15%, demonstrating a strong correlation.
Q: What are the different H-1B wage levels?
A: H-1B wages are categorized into four levels (1-4) based on prevailing wage data for the specific occupation and geographic area. Level 4 represents the highest wage tier.
Q: Does the 27% decrease in FY2027 registrations impact wage level odds?
A: While overall registrations decreased, the relative advantage of higher wage levels likely persists. Lower overall numbers might even slightly improve odds across all levels.
Q: How can I find out the wage level for an H-1B position?
A: Employers determine the wage level based on DOL data. You can research prevailing wages for your role and location, and discuss this with potential sponsors.
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →Higher wage levels significantly improve odds. For FY2027, Level 4 had ~62% odds, while Level 1 had ~15%, demonstrating a strong correlation.
H-1B wages are categorized into four levels (1-4) based on prevailing wage data for the specific occupation and geographic area. Level 4 represents the highest wage tier.
While overall registrations decreased, the relative advantage of higher wage levels likely persists. Lower overall numbers might even slightly improve odds across all levels.
Employers determine the wage level based on DOL data. You can research prevailing wages for your role and location, and discuss this with potential sponsors.