Your essential guide to the 2026 H-1B initial filing process for Software Engineers in San Francisco.
Securing an H-1B visa as a Software Engineer in San Francisco for 2026 involves understanding a complex process. Get Wisa provides data-driven insights into the initial filing requirements, lottery odds, and top sponsoring companies in this competitive tech hub.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Overall) | 35.3% | ↓ 27% |
| New Form I-129 Mandatory | April 2026 | New |
| Top SF Tech Sponsor: Amazon | 55,150 H-1B Filings | N/A |
| Top SF Tech Sponsor: Microsoft | 34,626 H-1B Filings | N/A |
| Top SF Tech Sponsor: Google | 33,416 H-1B Filings | N/A |
Our analysis of DOL data reveals that while overall H-1B registrations decreased by 27% for FY2027, the proportion of Level 3 and Level 4 filings (indicating more senior roles) saw a relative increase, suggesting a continued demand for experienced Software Engineers in tech hubs like San Francisco.
Before accepting an offer, verify the employer's H-1B filing history and approval rates on Get Wisa. Companies with a high volume of filings but a low approval rate for Software Engineer roles in San Francisco may indicate potential sponsorship challenges.
The 2026 H-1B initial filing landscape for Software Engineers in San Francisco is shaped by the lottery system and evolving USCIS policies. With overall selection odds at 35.3%, understanding the nuances of your registration is crucial. The introduction of the new Form I-129 in April 2026 mandates updated procedures for all initial filings, including those for tech roles in high-demand areas.
While the $100K fee applies to consular processing, F-1 OPT students undergoing a Change of Status are exempt. Employers in San Francisco, such as Amazon, Microsoft, and Google, continue to be major sponsors, filing tens of thousands of petitions annually. Analyzing their filing data on Get Wisa can provide valuable context for your own H-1B journey.
Based on DOL data, here are examples of H-1B filings by major tech employers in the San Francisco area:
Q: What is the overall H-1B selection odds for FY2027 in San Francisco?
A: The overall selection odds for the FY2027 H-1B lottery were approximately 35.3%. Specific odds can vary by wage level and employer type.
Q: When is the new Form I-129 mandatory for H-1B filings?
A: The new Form I-129 became mandatory for all H-1B filings starting April 2026, impacting initial petitions and amendments.
Q: Are there specific H-1B sponsorship trends for Software Engineers in San Francisco?
A: Yes, while overall registrations decreased, there's a trend towards higher-level filings, indicating continued demand for experienced Software Engineers in SF.
Q: How can I find companies in San Francisco that sponsor Software Engineers?
A: Use Get Wisa to search a database of over 45,000 verified sponsors, including many in San Francisco, with detailed filing histories.
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →The overall selection odds for the FY2027 H-1B lottery were approximately 35.3%. Specific odds can vary by wage level and employer type.
The new Form I-129 became mandatory for all H-1B filings starting April 2026, impacting initial petitions and amendments.
Yes, while overall registrations decreased, there's a trend towards higher-level filings, indicating continued demand for experienced Software Engineers in SF.
Use Get Wisa to search a database of over 45,000 verified sponsors, including many in San Francisco, with detailed filing histories.