Clarifying how salary dictates H-1B petition success for International Medical Graduates.
For International Medical Graduates (IMGs), understanding H-1B wage level requirements is critical for successful visa petitions. The Department of Labor (DOL) mandates specific salary ranges based on job location and duties, significantly impacting both the petition's approval and lottery selection odds.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Overall) | 35.3% | ↓ 27% |
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Level 1) | ~15% | ↓ 27% |
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Level 2) | ~31% | ↓ 27% |
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Level 3) | ~46% | ↓ 27% |
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Level 4) | ~62% | ↓ 27% |
| New Form I-129 | Mandatory April 2026 | N/A |
Our analysis of DOL data shows that for specialized roles like physicians, employers often file at higher wage levels (Level 3 or 4). This strategy not only meets H-1B requirements but also significantly increases the probability of selection in the lottery.
When reviewing job offers or LCAs, pay close attention to the stated wage level. Ensure it aligns with the prevailing wage for your specific medical specialty and location. Get Wisa can help you compare offered wages against historical data.
For International Medical Graduates (IMGs), H-1B wage levels are paramount. The Department of Labor categorizes wages into four levels, with Level 4 being the highest. Higher wage levels generally correlate with better selection odds in the FY2027 lottery, which saw overall odds at 35.3%.
Employers must offer the higher of the actual wage paid to similar employees or the prevailing wage determined by DOL. The introduction of the new Form I-129 in April 2026 may affect processing, but wage requirements remain a core component of H-1B petitions.
Major hospital systems like Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic often file H-1B petitions at Level 3 or Level 4 wage levels for their physicians, reflecting the specialized nature and high demand for these roles. This strategy maximizes their chances in the lottery.
For example, a physician role in a high-cost-of-living area like New York City might require a Level 4 wage, whereas a similar role in a lower-cost area might be classified at Level 3. Accurate prevailing wage determination is key.
Q: How are H-1B wage levels determined for IMGs?
A: Wage levels are determined by the employer based on the specific job, location, and the Department of Labor's prevailing wage data for that occupation.
Q: Do higher H-1B wage levels increase lottery odds for IMGs?
A: Yes, higher wage levels (especially Level 3 and 4) are generally associated with better selection odds in the H-1B lottery.
Q: What is the difference between prevailing wage and actual wage for H-1B?
A: The employer must pay the higher of the actual wage paid to similarly employed workers or the prevailing wage determined by DOL for the occupational classification.
Q: Can an IMG negotiate their H-1B salary/wage level?
A: While the employer determines the wage level based on DOL rules, IMGs can negotiate based on their qualifications and market rates, ensuring the offered wage meets H-1B requirements.
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Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →Wage levels are determined by the employer based on the specific job, location, and the Department of Labor's prevailing wage data for that occupation.
Yes, higher wage levels (especially Level 3 and 4) are generally associated with better selection odds in the H-1B lottery.
The employer must pay the higher of the actual wage paid to similarly employed workers or the prevailing wage determined by DOL for the occupational classification.
While the employer determines the wage level based on DOL rules, IMGs can negotiate based on their qualifications and market rates, ensuring the offered wage meets H-1B requirements.