Discover top H-1B sponsoring companies for Software Engineer roles in the San Francisco Bay Area.
For international Software Engineers targeting San Francisco, understanding which companies actively sponsor H-1B visas is crucial. In 2026, Amazon continued its significant sponsorship activity, filing 55,150 H-1B petitions. Get Wisa provides data-driven insights to navigate your sponsorship journey.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon H-1B Filings | 55,150 | ↑ 5% |
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Overall) | 35.3% | Stable |
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Level 4) | ~62% | ↑ 3% |
| New Form I-129 Mandatory | April 2026 | N/A |
| Total Verified Sponsors (Get Wisa) | 45,000+ | ↑ 10% |
Our analysis of DOL data reveals that while Amazon's overall H-1B filings saw a modest increase, the proportion of filings for senior roles (Level 4 wages) grew by 5% year-over-year, indicating a strategic focus on experienced talent in competitive tech hubs like San Francisco.
When evaluating H-1B sponsorship offers, pay close attention to the proposed wage. Higher wage levels (Level 3 & 4) not only improve your lottery odds but also signal the employer's commitment to specialized roles, which can be more stable long-term.
The 2026 H-1B landscape continues to be shaped by lottery odds and evolving USCIS processes. With overall selection odds at 35.3% for FY2027, securing sponsorship requires targeting companies with a proven track record. Amazon's substantial filing numbers in San Francisco underscore its importance for Software Engineers. The mandatory April 2026 implementation of the new Form I-129, while not directly impacting the $100K fee for F-1 OPT Change of Status applicants, signifies ongoing administrative changes that applicants must stay informed about.
For those considering consular processing, the $100K fee remains a significant factor, exclusively applicable to this pathway. However, F-1 OPT students pursuing a Change of Status within the U.S. are exempt. Understanding these nuances is critical for strategic visa planning.
Based on U.S. Department of Labor data for 2026:
Q: What is the average H-1B selection chance for a Software Engineer in San Francisco in 2026?
A: The overall FY2027 H-1B lottery selection odds were 35.3%. For higher wage levels, like Level 4, odds increased to approximately 62%, which is common for experienced Software Engineers.
Q: Does Amazon sponsor H-1B for entry-level Software Engineers?
A: Amazon's data shows significant filings across wage levels. While Level 4 wages had higher odds (~62%), they also sponsor at lower levels, though selection is more competitive. Check Get Wisa for specific role data.
Q: How does the new Form I-129 affect H-1B filings for Software Engineers in 2026?
A: The new Form I-129, mandatory from April 2026, standardizes the filing process. It doesn't change eligibility but requires careful attention to updated USCIS instructions for all H-1B applications.
Q: Are there other tech companies sponsoring Software Engineers in San Francisco besides Amazon?
A: Yes, many tech companies sponsor. Our database at Get Wisa lists over 45,000 verified sponsors, including numerous firms in the San Francisco Bay Area actively seeking tech talent.
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →The overall FY2027 H-1B lottery selection odds were 35.3%. For higher wage levels, like Level 4, odds increased to approximately 62%, which is common for experienced Software Engineers.
Amazon's data shows significant filings across wage levels. While Level 4 wages had higher odds (~62%), they also sponsor at lower levels, though selection is more competitive. Check Get Wisa for specific role data.
The new Form I-129, mandatory from April 2026, standardizes the filing process. It doesn't change eligibility but requires careful attention to updated USCIS instructions for all H-1B applications.
Yes, many tech companies sponsor. Our database at Get Wisa lists over 45,000 verified sponsors, including numerous firms in the San Francisco Bay Area actively seeking tech talent.