In-depth insights into the H-1B sponsorship landscape for Software Engineers based on the latest DOL data.
Software Engineers seeking H-1B sponsorship in 2026 face a complex but navigable landscape. Get Wisa provides a data-driven analysis of current trends, including top sponsoring companies, lottery dynamics, and processing timelines, to empower your application strategy.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon H-1B Filings | 55,150 | ↑ 5% |
| Microsoft H-1B Filings | 34,626 | ↑ 3% |
| Google H-1B Filings | 33,416 | ↑ 4% |
| Infosys H-1B Filings | 32,840 | ↓ 2% |
| PERM Processing Average | 503 days | ↑ 15 days |
| PWD Processing Average | 3-4 months | Stable |
Our analysis of 2026 DOL data shows that while top tech giants sponsor the most Software Engineers, there's a significant rise (12% YoY) in H-1B filings from specialized AI and Machine Learning firms, indicating a shift in demand towards niche, high-skill areas within software engineering.
When evaluating H-1B sponsorship offers, research the company's PERM approval rate on Get Wisa. A high volume of PERM filings with a low approval rate can be a red flag for potential long-term green card sponsorship challenges.
The 2026 H-1B sponsorship landscape for Software Engineers is characterized by consistent demand from major tech players and emerging specialized firms. The FY2027 lottery, with approximately 343,981 registrations, presented overall selection odds of 35.3%. The introduction of the new Form I-129 in April 2026 and expanded social media vetting add new layers of procedural complexity.
Average PERM processing times have increased to 503 days, and PWD processing takes 3-4 months, highlighting the importance of timely and accurate filings. Companies like Amazon (55,150 filings), Microsoft (34,626), and Google (33,416) continue to be the largest sponsors, but understanding wage-weighted lottery implications and employer-specific approval rates is crucial for strategic planning.
- **Amazon:** Filed 55,150 H-1B petitions, demonstrating a massive scale of sponsorship for Software Engineering roles. - **Microsoft:** With 34,626 H-1B filings, they consistently sponsor a high volume of Software Engineers. - **Google:** Recorded 33,416 H-1B filings, indicating sustained demand for international Software Engineering talent.
Q: Which companies sponsored the most Software Engineers for H-1B in 2026?
A: Amazon (55,150), Microsoft (34,626), and Google (33,416) were the top sponsors. Emerging AI/ML firms also showed increased sponsorship activity.
Q: What are the overall H-1B lottery odds for Software Engineers in 2026?
A: The FY2027 lottery had overall selection odds of 35.3%. Specific odds for Software Engineers depend on employer filings and role demand.
Q: How do PERM and PWD processing times affect Software Engineer H-1B applications?
A: With PERM averaging 503 days and PWD taking 3-4 months, these timelines necessitate early planning and sponsor engagement for Software Engineers.
Q: What impact does the new Form I-129 have on Software Engineer H-1B filings?
A: The mandatory April 2026 Form I-129 introduces new data requirements and expanded social media vetting, potentially affecting application review and timelines.
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Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →Amazon (55,150), Microsoft (34,626), and Google (33,416) were the top sponsors. Emerging AI/ML firms also showed increased sponsorship activity.
The FY2027 lottery had overall selection odds of 35.3%. Specific odds for Software Engineers depend on employer filings and role demand.
With PERM averaging 503 days and PWD taking 3-4 months, these timelines necessitate early planning and sponsor engagement for Software Engineers.
The mandatory April 2026 Form I-129 introduces new data requirements and expanded social media vetting, potentially affecting application review and timelines.