Realistic outlook for Level 1 wage applications in the FY2027 H-1B lottery.
For many international professionals, understanding their H-1B lottery odds is crucial, especially with the new wage-weighted system. This page provides a clear breakdown of the selection chances for Level 1 wage applications in the FY2027 lottery.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| FY2027 Lottery Registrations | ~343,981 | ↓ 27% |
| Overall Selection Odds (FY2027) | 35.3% | ↓ (New System) |
| Level 1 Wage Odds (FY2027) | ~15% | ↓ (New System) |
| Level 2 Wage Odds (FY2027) | ~31% | ↓ (New System) |
| Level 4 Wage Odds (FY2027) | ~62% | ↑ (New System) |
| Total H-1B Filing Records (Wisa) | 323,617 | N/A |
The FY2027 H-1B lottery's wage-weighted system significantly impacts selection odds, particularly for lower wage levels. Our analysis of DOL data shows that Level 1 wage applications face approximately 15% odds, a stark contrast to the ~62% odds for Level 4 wages. This disparity is a crucial insight for applicants and employers, highlighting the strategic importance of wage offerings, a detail often simplified on other immigration sites.
If your H-1B petition is based on a Level 1 wage, understand that your selection odds are considerably lower. Focus on employers who consistently offer higher wages (Level 3 or 4) or explore alternative visa pathways if available. Get Wisa can help identify sponsors with a history of higher wage filings.
The FY2027 H-1B lottery has introduced a significant shift with its wage-weighted selection process. While total registrations decreased by 27% to ~343,981, the odds are not uniform. Applicants with Level 1 wages face approximately 15% selection odds, a substantial decrease compared to the overall odds of 35.3% and the much higher odds for Level 4 wages (~62%).
This system strongly incentivizes employers to offer higher salaries to improve their chances of selection. For individuals whose roles are typically compensated at Level 1, the competition is intensified. It's crucial for these applicants to research potential employers and understand their wage-filing patterns. Be aware of the expanded social media vetting, which began March 30, 2026.
While specific wage levels aren't always public, the following companies are major H-1B sponsors, indicating a broad range of wage offerings, including those that might fall into Level 1:
Q: What are the chances of H-1B selection if my wage is Level 1 in 2026?
A: For FY2027, Level 1 wage H-1B selections have approximately 15% odds. This is significantly lower than higher wage levels under the new wage-weighted lottery.
Q: How does the wage-weighted lottery affect Level 1 wage applications?
A: It substantially reduces selection odds for Level 1 wages compared to previous years and higher wage levels in the current year.
Q: What are the odds for Level 4 wages in the FY2027 H-1B lottery?
A: Level 4 wage H-1B applications have significantly higher selection odds, estimated at around 62% for FY2027.
Q: Should I still apply for H-1B if my wage is Level 1?
A: While odds are lower, it's still possible. Focus on employers who offer higher wages or consider alternative visa options if available. Get Wisa can help identify sponsors.
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →For FY2027, Level 1 wage H-1B selections have approximately 15% odds. This is significantly lower than higher wage levels under the new wage-weighted lottery.
It substantially reduces selection odds for Level 1 wages compared to previous years and higher wage levels in the current year.
Level 4 wage H-1B applications have significantly higher selection odds, estimated at around 62% for FY2027.
While odds are lower, it's still possible. Focus on employers who offer higher wages or consider alternative visa options if available. Get Wisa can help identify sponsors.