How to Find H1B Visa Sponsors
A step-by-step guide to finding companies that sponsor H1B visas, with search strategies, databases, and tips for targeting the right employers.
1What Is an H1B Sponsor?
An H1B sponsor is a US employer who files a Labor Condition Application (LCA) with the Department of Labor and a petition with USCIS on behalf of a foreign worker. The employer takes on legal responsibility for the worker's wages and working conditions. Not all US companies sponsor H1B visas — smaller companies often lack the resources or experience to navigate the process.
2Use Public LCA Data
The DOL publishes all LCA filings publicly, which means you can see exactly which companies have sponsored H1B workers and how many. This website aggregates that data for easy searching. Look for companies with a high number of filings and a strong approval rate (above 90%) as indicators of H1B-friendly employers.
3Target Large Tech and Consulting Companies
The biggest H1B sponsors are typically large tech companies (Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Meta) and IT staffing/consulting firms (Cognizant, Infosys, Tata Consultancy Services, Wipro). These companies have established H1B processes and sponsor thousands of workers each year. However, competition is intense at top tech firms.
4Look at Cap-Exempt Employers
Universities, non-profits affiliated with universities, and certain research institutions are exempt from the H1B cap (annual limit of 65,000 regular + 20,000 master's cap). These employers can sponsor H1B workers at any time of year without waiting for the April lottery. If you qualify for academic or research roles, this is a significant advantage.
5Network and Target Proactively
Many H1B sponsorships result from existing relationships — internships, contract work, or referrals. Target companies where you already have a contact. When applying, be upfront about your visa needs, and research whether the company has sponsored before using this site's data before investing time in an application.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a company sponsors H1B visas?
Check their LCA filing history on this site. Any company that has filed LCAs in the past is experienced with H1B sponsorship. Look for companies with 20+ filings and a 90%+ approval rate.
Can small companies sponsor H1B visas?
Yes, small companies can sponsor H1B visas. However, they face more scrutiny from USCIS and may lack internal expertise. Look for small companies that have previously sponsored H1B workers as evidence they understand the process.