Entry-level H-1B sponsorship opportunities for new graduates and early-career professionals entering the U.S. job market.
Landing your first H-1B-sponsored job as a new graduate can feel overwhelming. Many job postings require years of experience, and it's hard to tell which employers will actually sponsor entry-level candidates. Wisa helps freshers identify companies that have a track record of filing H-1B petitions at Level 1 and Level 2 wages — a strong indicator that they hire and sponsor early-career workers.
Yes. Thousands of new graduates receive H-1B sponsorship each year. Most begin on OPT (Optional Practical Training) after completing their U.S. degree, then transition to H-1B status when their employer files a petition. STEM OPT extension holders have up to three years to secure H-1B sponsorship through the annual lottery.
Look for these signals in Wisa's database:
Most freshers follow this timeline: graduate and start OPT (12 months for non-STEM, up to 36 months for STEM), get hired and demonstrate value during OPT, then the employer files an H-1B registration during the March registration window. If selected in the lottery, H-1B status begins October 1. If not selected, STEM OPT holders can try again the following year.
Start your job search early — ideally 3-6 months before graduation. Target companies with verified H-1B filing histories on Wisa. Apply to large companies with established immigration programs as well as growing startups that need talent and are willing to sponsor. Prepare to discuss your visa timeline openly during interviews; most sponsors appreciate transparency.
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →Yes, thousands of companies sponsor H-1B visas for new graduates each year. Most new graduates start on OPT after their U.S. degree and transition to H-1B. Major tech companies, consulting firms, and financial institutions have structured programs for sponsoring entry-level international hires.
Entry-level H-1B salaries vary by occupation and location. Software engineers in major metros typically start at $90,000 to $130,000. Consulting roles range from $70,000 to $100,000. Finance roles vary from $80,000 to $120,000. All H-1B salaries must meet or exceed the DOL prevailing wage for the occupation and location.
It can be more challenging but is certainly possible. Employers can sponsor H-1B visas for workers with foreign degrees, though the position must qualify as a specialty occupation requiring at least a bachelor's degree. Having a U.S. degree does not give you a preference in the lottery, but U.S. advanced degree holders have access to the additional 20,000-visa pool.
If you're on STEM OPT, you can continue working and try again the next year — you get up to three lottery attempts during your 36-month STEM OPT period. Other options include cap-exempt employers (universities, nonprofits), O-1 visas for those with extraordinary achievements, or employer transfer to a foreign office followed by L-1 visa.