The US Department of Labor (DOL) has published a notice announcing the annual update to the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) applicable to H‑2A workers employed in herding or livestock production on the range. The update is issued by the Employment and Training Administration (ETA) and reflects the wage‑adjustment methodology established in 2015.
Overview of the AEWR
The AEWR represents the minimum wage rate that employers must offer, advertise, and pay to H‑2A workers — and to US workers in corresponding employment — to ensure that the employment of foreign workers does not negatively impact wages or working conditions for similarly employed US workers.
For employers seeking H‑2A labor certification for range occupations, compliance with the AEWR is a required condition for approval by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Updated Monthly AEWR for Range Occupations
For calendar year 2026, DOL has set the national monthly AEWR for all H‑2A range occupations at $2,132.41. This amount reflects a 3.6% increase based on changes in the Employment Cost Index (ECI) for wages and salaries, as published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The updated rate was calculated using the prior year’s monthly AEWR of $2,058.31, adjusted by the ECI change measured between September 2024 and September 2025.
Employer Compliance Requirements
Employers certified — or seeking certification — to employ H‑2A workers in range occupations must pay workers no less than the highest applicable wage, which may include:
- The updated monthly AEWR
- Any applicable collective bargaining wage
- The federal or state minimum wage
If the AEWR increases during a work contract and exceeds other applicable wage rates, employers are required to pay the adjusted AEWR for all work performed on or after the effective date.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.