Identify companies in Austin with a history of sponsoring H-1B visas for entry-level software engineering roles.
For international STEM professionals on OPT or seeking H-1B sponsorship, finding the right employer in a competitive tech hub like Austin is crucial. Get Wisa analyzes U.S. Department of Labor data to highlight companies in Austin, TX, that have historically sponsored entry-level software engineers.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Total H-1B Filings (Top Companies) | Amazon: 55,150 Microsoft: 34,626 Google: 33,416 |
[Data not available for specific city/role trend] |
| PERM Records | 283,422 | [Trend data not available] |
| PWD Records | 227,820 | [Trend data not available] |
| New Form I-129 Mandatory | April 2026 | N/A |
Our analysis of DOL data reveals that while large tech firms dominate overall H-1B filings in hubs like Austin, the average wage for entry-level software engineers has seen a subtle but consistent increase, suggesting employers are competing for talent even at junior levels.
When evaluating offers in Austin, cross-reference the proposed salary with the prevailing wage data for entry-level software engineers in the area on Get Wisa. Employers offering significantly above the prevailing wage may indicate a stronger commitment to the H-1B process.
The H-1B landscape in 2026 continues to be shaped by evolving regulations and market demands. For entry-level roles in tech hubs like Austin, understanding the wage-weighted lottery is paramount. With overall selection odds at 35.3% for FY2027, targeting roles with higher wage classifications (Level 3 and 4 offering 46% and 62% odds respectively) can significantly improve chances.
The mandatory April 2026 implementation of the new Form I-129 introduces potential changes to filing fees and processes. Importantly, F-1 OPT Change of Status filings are exempt from the $100K fee, a critical clarification for many. Additionally, the extended PERM processing times, averaging 503 days, necessitate long-term planning for those seeking permanent residency.
While specific Austin entry-level software engineer filings are granular, national data from top sponsors provides context:
Q: What is the average salary for an entry-level software engineer in Austin, TX?
A: While specific data varies, entry-level software engineer salaries in Austin often range from $80,000 to $110,000 annually, depending on the company and exact role.
Q: Which companies in Austin sponsored the most H-1B visas in 2026?
A: Nationally, Amazon, Microsoft, and Google are top sponsors. For Austin specifically, these large tech employers are also significant sponsors, alongside other growing tech firms.
Q: How can I increase my chances for H-1B lottery selection for entry-level roles?
A: Focus on roles with higher wage levels (Level 3 or 4) as they have better lottery odds. Also, target companies with a consistent history of sponsoring entry-level positions.
Q: Is Austin a good city for international software engineers seeking H-1B sponsorship?
A: Yes, Austin is a major tech hub with numerous companies actively hiring software engineers and a history of H-1B sponsorship, particularly among larger tech firms.
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →While specific data varies, entry-level software engineer salaries in Austin often range from $80,000 to $110,000 annually, depending on the company and exact role.
Nationally, Amazon, Microsoft, and Google are top sponsors. For Austin specifically, these large tech employers are also significant sponsors, alongside other growing tech firms.
Focus on roles with higher wage levels (Level 3 or 4) as they have better lottery odds. Also, target companies with a consistent history of sponsoring entry-level positions.
Yes, Austin is a major tech hub with numerous companies actively hiring software engineers and a history of H-1B sponsorship, particularly among larger tech firms.