How wage levels influence your H-1B lottery chances and negotiation power.
The 2026 H-1B season introduces a wage-weighted lottery, making the four DOL wage levels a critical factor in salary negotiation. This guide breaks down each wage level, its associated lottery odds, and how to leverage this knowledge for a better offer.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Level 1) | ~15% | N/A (New System) |
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Level 2) | ~31% | N/A (New System) |
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Level 3) | ~46% | N/A (New System) |
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Level 4) | ~62% | N/A (New System) |
| Total H-1B Filing Records | 323,617 | N/A |
Our analysis of LCA data shows that companies consistently filing at Level 3 and Level 4 wages are often those with robust R&D departments or specialized needs, suggesting these roles command higher salaries and are more likely to be prioritized in the wage-weighted lottery.
When negotiating your H-1B salary, aim for offers that align with Level 3 or Level 4 wages. Use Get Wisa to research prevailing wages and actual salaries filed by companies to justify your negotiation for these higher levels.
The 2026 H-1B season's wage-weighted lottery places significant emphasis on the four DOL wage levels. Understanding these levels is crucial for salary negotiation: Level 1 (~15% odds), Level 2 (~31% odds), Level 3 (~46% odds), and Level 4 (~62% odds). Higher wage levels directly translate to better lottery selection chances.
This system incentivizes employers to offer competitive salaries to secure talent and improve their H-1B filing success rates. When negotiating, aim for offers that place you in Level 3 or 4. Remember the new Form I-129 is mandatory from April 2026, and while the $100K fee is for consular processing, F-1 OPT Change of Status is exempt.
Here are examples of how top H-1B sponsors utilize different wage levels:
Q: How do H-1B wage levels affect my lottery chances in 2026?
A: Higher wage levels directly increase your odds. Level 4 offers the highest odds (~62%), while Level 1 offers the lowest (~15%). Negotiate for higher levels.
Q: What is the difference between prevailing wage and H-1B wage levels?
A: Prevailing wage is the minimum DOL-determined rate for a job in a location. H-1B wage levels (1-4) are based on this and represent salary ranges that impact lottery odds.
Q: How can I find out which wage level a company typically offers?
A: Use Get Wisa to analyze LCA data. You can see the actual wages filed by companies, which often correspond to specific wage levels and their associated lottery odds.
Q: Should I focus solely on salary when negotiating H-1B offers based on wage levels?
A: While salary is key for lottery odds, consider the total compensation package. However, prioritize salary that pushes you into Level 3 or 4 for better H-1B chances.
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →Higher wage levels directly increase your odds. Level 4 offers the highest odds (~62%), while Level 1 offers the lowest (~15%). Negotiate for higher levels.
Prevailing wage is the minimum DOL-determined rate for a job in a location. H-1B wage levels (1-4) are based on this and represent salary ranges that impact lottery odds.
Use Get Wisa to analyze LCA data. You can see the actual wages filed by companies, which often correspond to specific wage levels and their associated lottery odds.
While salary is key for lottery odds, consider the total compensation package. However, prioritize salary that pushes you into Level 3 or 4 for better H-1B chances.