A $2,000 pay gap has stalled your H-1B dream after new wage rules from the Trump administration. A software engineer on a STEM Optional Practical Training work permit earns $86,000 which is below the new Level 1 wage of $88,000 for the same role.
Salary gap hits H-1B plans
You expect a routine annual raise that takes your pay close to $90,000. But the raise is not official yet. It usually comes only by mid April which leaves you stuck below the required wage during the H-1B filing window.
Wage weighted lottery adds pressure
This year the Trump administration shifted the H-1B lottery to a wage weighted system. Higher wages now give you better chances. Since your current pay stays under Level 1 you face weaker odds from the start.
Employer risk creates uncertainty
You now depend on a future $90,000 offer. But your employer may avoid using a projected salary. They fear strict administrative checks and do not want to file with numbers that are not yet active on payroll.
October rule offers no full relief
Other H-1B workers say future wages count if the correct pay starts by October 1. But delays beyond July trigger new government wage updates. That can raise benchmarks and push your offer back under Level 1 again.
Even Level 1 offers weak hope
These grey areas now threaten your entire visa attempt. Even if you clear Level 1 your chances stay low in a weighted lottery. You now face a system that feels tougher than ever.
