Question 1

What is the new H-1B “weighted selection process”?

Accepted Answer

Instead of a pure lottery, USCIS will give multiple entries to applicants with higher wage levels. Each unique beneficiary is entered into the pool once, but the number of entries depends on their wage: Level IV gets 4 entries, Level III gets 3, Level II gets 2, and Level I gets 1 entry. This gives higher-paid positions better odds.

Question 2

What information must be included in the registration?

Accepted Answer

Registrants must provide the highest OEWS wage level that the proffered wage meets, the relevant SOC code, the geographic area, and the beneficiary’s valid passport or travel document details. Each beneficiary should be registered under the single passport they will use to enter the U.S.

Question 3

How do I pick the OEWS wage level on the registration?

Accepted Answer

You must select the highest OEWS wage level (I through IV) such that the proffered wage is at least that level’s wage. For example, if your offered wage is $60,000, Level II is $55,000, and Level III is $70,000, you select Level II because the wage equals or exceeds Level II but is less than Level III.

Question 4

My pay is given as a range. Which number do I use?

Accepted Answer

Use the bottom of the wage range to determine the level. Take the lowest wage in the offered range, and pick the OEWS level that wage meets or exceeds.

Question 5

How do I handle multiple locations or multiple positions?

Accepted Answer

If the beneficiary will work in more than one location, you must pick the lowest wage level that covers all locations/positions. If Location A corresponds to Level II and Location B to Level III, you must select Level II on the registration.

Question 6

My wage is based on a private survey. How do I select the level?

Accepted Answer

If your proffered wage comes from a non-OEWS source and is below the OEWS Level I wage, you still select Wage Level I. If it is higher, compare it to the OEWS wage levels similarly: choose the highest OEWS level that the wage equals or exceeds.

Question 7

What if there aren’t enough registrations to fill the cap?

Accepted Answer

If USCIS finds fewer unique beneficiaries than the number of cap visas, it will notify all registrants that they are selected. USCIS will then keep the registration period open and continue accepting registrations until it has enough to meet the cap.

Question 8

Can the employer change the job location or title after registration?

Accepted Answer

Generally, no. The petition should match the registered position. Any change must still be a bona fide job offer consistent with the original registration’s terms.

FY 2027 H-1B Rule FAQ

The Weighted Lottery

Unique Beneficiaries Only

Strict Compliance

FY 2027 Timeline

Frequently Asked Questions