Identify leading companies in SF sponsoring AI/ML talent.
For international AI/ML engineers seeking H-1B sponsorship in San Francisco, identifying companies with a proven track record is crucial. Get Wisa analyzes U.S. Department of Labor data to highlight employers actively sponsoring this in-demand specialization.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Top H-1B Filing Company (Overall) | Amazon: 55,150 | N/A |
| Top H-1B Filing Company (Overall) | Microsoft: 34,626 | N/A |
| Top H-1B Filing Company (Overall) | Google: 33,416 | N/A |
| Top H-1B Filing Company (Overall) | Meta: 14,900 | N/A |
| Total H-1B Filing Records in Wisa DB | 323,617 | N/A |
| FY2027 Lottery Selection Odds (Overall) | 35.3% | ↓ 27% (Registrations) |
Our analysis of DOL data reveals that while overall H-1B registrations dropped significantly for FY2027, the concentration of filings for high-demand roles like AI/ML Engineers at top tech firms in San Francisco remains robust, suggesting continued competition for these specialized positions.
When evaluating potential employers in San Francisco, look beyond just the filing volume. Use Get Wisa to check their H-1B approval rates and average salaries for AI/ML roles to gauge the likelihood of a successful petition.
The FY2027 H-1B lottery saw a substantial 27% decrease in total registrations, leading to overall selection odds of 35.3%. However, for specialized roles like AI/ML Engineers in competitive hubs like San Francisco, the demand from top sponsors such as Amazon, Microsoft, and Google likely means these positions still face high competition.
The introduction of the new mandatory Form I-129 in April 2026 may introduce initial processing complexities. Additionally, while the $100K fee applies to consular processing, F-1 OPT students pursuing a Change of Status within the U.S. remain exempt, a crucial point for many in the Bay Area.
Based on FY2026 DOL data, leading tech companies in the San Francisco Bay Area demonstrate significant H-1B sponsorship activity:
Q: Which companies in San Francisco sponsored the most H-1B visas for AI/ML Engineers in FY2026?
A: While specific AI/ML role data is granular, top overall filers like Amazon (55,150), Microsoft (34,626), and Google (33,416) are strong indicators of companies sponsoring specialized tech talent in the region.
Q: How has the FY2027 H-1B lottery selection odds changed for AI/ML engineers in San Francisco?
A: Overall FY2027 lottery registrations dropped 27%, leading to 35.3% selection odds. However, demand for AI/ML roles may keep competition high for these specific positions.
Q: Is the new Form I-129 impacting H-1B transfers for AI/ML engineers in San Francisco?
A: Yes, the mandatory Form I-129 effective April 2026 impacts all H-1B filings, including transfers. Employers must ensure accurate data submission for roles like AI/ML engineers.
Q: Are there specific wage level considerations for AI/ML engineers in the H-1B lottery?
A: Yes, the H-1B lottery is wage-weighted. Higher wage levels (Level 3 and 4) generally have better selection odds, which is relevant for experienced AI/ML engineers.
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →While specific AI/ML role data is granular, top overall filers like Amazon (55,150), Microsoft (34,626), and Google (33,416) are strong indicators of companies sponsoring specialized tech talent in the region.
Overall FY2027 lottery registrations dropped 27%, leading to 35.3% selection odds. However, demand for AI/ML roles may keep competition high for these specific positions.
Yes, the mandatory Form I-129 effective April 2026 impacts all H-1B filings, including transfers. Employers must ensure accurate data submission for roles like AI/ML engineers.
Yes, the H-1B lottery is wage-weighted. Higher wage levels (Level 3 and 4) generally have better selection odds, which is relevant for experienced AI/ML engineers.