Essential steps for F-1 OPT students to assess the reliability and sponsorship history of potential H-1B employers.
For F-1 OPT graduates navigating the H-1B process, verifying a potential sponsor's legitimacy is paramount. Understanding how to leverage public data and specialized tools like Get Wisa can help you identify trustworthy employers and avoid common pitfalls.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Total Verified Sponsors (Wisa) | 45,000+ | ↑ 10% |
| Total H-1B Filing Records (Wisa) | 323,617 | ↑ 4% |
| PERM Records (Wisa) | 283,422 | ↑ 5% |
| PWD Records (Wisa) | 227,820 | ↑ 6% |
| New Form I-129 Mandatory | April 2026 | New |
| Social Media Vetting Expansion | March 30, 2026 | Expanded |
Our analysis of DOL data shows that companies with a high volume of PERM filings but a disproportionately low number of approved Labor Certifications (PERM) may indicate a higher risk for H-1B sponsorship, suggesting potential issues with the underlying job requirements or company commitment.
Before accepting an offer, verify the employer's H-1B and PERM success rates on Get Wisa. Companies with a high number of filings but low approval rates for PERM applications can be a red flag for sponsorship reliability.
For F-1 OPT graduates, verifying H-1B sponsor legitimacy is a critical step in securing employment. The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) provides public data on employer filings, which Get Wisa aggregates and analyzes. Key indicators of a reliable sponsor include a consistent history of H-1B and PERM filings, a reasonable approval rate, and offering wages that meet or exceed the prevailing wage for the role.
Be aware of red flags such as companies with very few filings, a sudden surge in filings for roles that don't match your qualifications, or significantly low wage offers. The introduction of the new Form I-129 in April 2026 and expanded social media vetting (March 2026) add layers to the process. Get Wisa's database of over 45,000 verified sponsors and 323,617 H-1B filing records empowers you to make informed decisions.
Here are examples illustrating how to assess sponsorship history using DOL data:
Q: What is the best way for OPT students to verify H-1B sponsor legitimacy?
A: Use public DOL data and platforms like Get Wisa to check a company's filing history, approval rates, and wage data. Look for consistent sponsorship patterns.
Q: What are red flags when checking an H-1B sponsor's history?
A: Red flags include very low filing volumes, a high number of denied PERM applications, or wage offers significantly below market rates for the role and location.
Q: How many H-1B filings indicate a reliable sponsor?
A: There's no magic number, but a consistent history of filings (e.g., dozens or hundreds annually) with good approval rates suggests a company is experienced and committed to sponsorship.
Q: Does Get Wisa provide data on PERM approval rates?
A: Yes, Get Wisa analyzes DOL data, including PERM filing and approval records, to help you assess a company's track record and potential for successful H-1B sponsorship.
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →Use public DOL data and platforms like Get Wisa to check a company's filing history, approval rates, and wage data. Look for consistent sponsorship patterns.
Red flags include very low filing volumes, a high number of denied PERM applications, or wage offers significantly below market rates for the role and location.
There's no magic number, but a consistent history of filings (e.g., dozens or hundreds annually) with good approval rates suggests a company is experienced and committed to sponsorship.
Yes, Get Wisa analyzes DOL data, including PERM filing and approval records, to help you assess a company's track record and potential for successful H-1B sponsorship.