Master the art of finding H-1B sponsors for junior positions.
Securing H-1B sponsorship for entry-level roles can be challenging, but a strategic approach is key. This guide focuses on identifying companies that actively sponsor junior positions, understanding the impact of wage levels on lottery odds, and leveraging data to find reliable employers in 2026.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Level 1) | ~15% | New Breakdown |
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Level 2) | ~31% | New Breakdown |
| Total H-1B Filing Records | 323,617 | ↓ 15% |
| PERM Processing Time (Avg) | 503 days | ↔ |
| New Form I-129 Mandatory | April 2026 | New |
Finding H-1B sponsorship for entry-level roles requires a nuanced strategy. While large companies like Amazon (55,150 filings) and Microsoft (34,626 filings) offer volume, focusing on employers with a consistent history of sponsoring at lower wage levels (Level 1 & 2) is crucial. The wage-weighted lottery means higher salaries improve odds, so identifying companies that offer competitive entry-level wages is key.
When using Get Wisa, filter for companies that sponsor at wage levels corresponding to entry-level positions (e.g., Level 1 or Level 2). Look for employers with a steady stream of filings in these categories, rather than just those with the highest overall filing counts, as this indicates a stronger focus on junior talent.
The 2026 H-1B season emphasizes the wage-weighted lottery, making salary levels a critical factor, especially for entry-level roles. With overall lottery odds at 35.3% and Level 1 odds around 15%, targeting employers who offer competitive wages for junior positions is paramount. The introduction of the new Form I-129 in April 2026 requires all employers to adapt their filing processes, but doesn't fundamentally change the need for accurate data.
For those on F-1 OPT, pursuing a Change of Status (COS) remains the standard route to H-1B and is exempt from the $100K fee. Average PERM processing times of 503 days highlight the importance of early engagement with potential sponsors. Be aware of expanded social media vetting and potential consular delays.
Understanding how different companies approach sponsorship for entry-level roles is key:
Q: How can I find H-1B sponsors for entry-level software engineer roles?
Use Get Wisa to filter for companies sponsoring at Level 1 or Level 2 wage brackets, which typically correspond to entry-level positions. Look for consistent filing history in these categories.
Q: Do companies sponsoring entry-level roles have lower H-1B approval rates?
Not necessarily. Approval depends on meeting USCIS criteria. Focus on sponsors with a documented history of successful PERM certifications and accurate wage data, regardless of their overall filing volume.
Q: How does the new I-129 form affect finding entry-level H-1B sponsors?
The new I-129 form, mandatory from April 2026, requires more detailed information. Sponsors prepared for this change will likely have more efficient filing processes, benefiting all applicants, including those seeking entry-level roles.
Q: What is the advantage of targeting companies with lower wage H-1B filings for entry-level jobs?
Lower wage filings (Level 1 & 2) often correspond to entry-level positions. While the lottery is competitive, understanding these wage brackets helps identify employers actively seeking junior talent and potentially offers a strategic advantage.
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →Use Get Wisa to filter for companies sponsoring at Level 1 or Level 2 wage brackets, which typically correspond to entry-level positions. Look for consistent filing history in these categories.
Not necessarily. Approval depends on meeting USCIS criteria. Focus on sponsors with a documented history of successful PERM certifications and accurate wage data, regardless of their overall filing volume.
The new I-129 form, mandatory from April 2026, requires more detailed information. Sponsors prepared for this change will likely have more efficient filing processes, benefiting all applicants, including those seeking entry-level roles.
Lower wage filings (Level 1 & 2) often correspond to entry-level positions. While the lottery is competitive, understanding these wage brackets helps identify employers actively seeking junior talent and potentially offers a strategic advantage.