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Prevailing Wage
Prevailing wage is the average wage paid to workers in the same occupation in the same US area, as determined by the Department of Labor (DOL). Employers sponsoring H-1B, PERM, and some other workers must pay at least this amount.
Wage levels and why they matter
DOL sets four wage levels (I to IV) for most jobs, based on experience and duties. Level I is entry level; Level IV is fully competent.
- H-1B and E-3: the employer's LCA promises the higher of the actual or prevailing wage.
- H-1B lottery: since February 27, 2026, the lottery is weighted by wage level, so a Level IV registration gets four entries and Level I gets one. See H-1B lottery.
- PERM: employers request an official determination on Form ETA-9141 before recruiting.
More in our PERM guide and H-1B lottery guide.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I look up prevailing wages?
DOL publishes wage data through the FLAG system and its online wage library.
Can an employer pay less than the prevailing wage?
No. For H-1B and PERM jobs, paying less violates DOL rules.
What wage level is my job?
It depends on the job duties, required experience, and education listed by the employer.
Official sources
- DOL: Foreign labor certificationdol.gov
- DOL: FLAG systemflag.dol.gov
General information, not legal advice. NorthAmericans.com is independent and not affiliated with any government.