H1B Prevailing Wage Levels I, II, III, IV — What They Mean
A clear explanation of H1B wage levels, how they're determined, and what each level means for your salary negotiation.
1What Are Prevailing Wage Levels?
The Department of Labor defines four wage levels for every occupation in every geographic area. These levels reflect the experience and skill required for the position. Employers must assign the appropriate level when filing an LCA, and the offered salary must meet or exceed the prevailing wage for that level.
2Level I — Entry Level
Level I generally describes an entry-level role with comparatively limited requirements and supervision appropriate to someone beginning in the occupation. The correct level depends on the position's actual duties and requirements; it is not determined by a fixed percentile label on this site.
3Level II — Qualified
Level II generally reflects a qualified worker performing moderately complex duties with more experience or judgment than Level I. Do not infer that it always equals the median wage or that every mid-level title belongs at Level II.
4Level III — Experienced
Level III generally reflects experienced work with complex duties, greater judgment, or responsibility. A senior-sounding title is not enough by itself; the employer must evaluate the actual requirements and duties.
5Level IV — Fully Competent
Level IV generally reflects fully competent work with advanced requirements, expertise, or responsibility. It should not be described as a universal top-market percentile because the official wage value depends on the occupation and area.
6How Levels Affect Your Salary Negotiations
If your employer files your LCA at Level I but the job duties match Level III, this is called a 'downgrading' and can be a red flag. It may indicate the employer is trying to pay below market rate. Understanding the wage level assigned to your LCA position helps you evaluate whether the offered salary is appropriate for your actual role.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who decides which wage level applies to me?
The employer assigns the wage level based on the job duties, required experience, and education. However, USCIS reviewers can challenge a level assignment if the job description suggests a higher level is warranted.
What if my salary is below the prevailing wage?
The LCA will be denied by DOL. The employer must either increase the offered salary to meet the prevailing wage or reclassify the position to a lower-level occupation with a lower prevailing wage. Workers should be wary of employers who significantly adjust the job title or duties to fit a lower wage level.
Put the guide into practice
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Use the tools with the facts in this guide. Historical evidence helps prioritize research; it does not determine legal eligibility or a role's sponsorship policy.