CISCO H-1B Visa Sponsorship & Salary Data
CISCO has filed 9,198 H-1B labor condition applications from FY 2020 to FY 2026, with 9,173 certified. The median H-1B salary at CISCO is $133,300, which is 11% higher than the national H-1B median of $120,000.
Salary Analysis
Salary Range
- 10th percentile: $96,600
- 25th percentile: $114,500
- Median: $133,300
- 75th percentile: $155,000
- 90th percentile: $175,000
Wage Level Distribution
- Level I (Entry): 35 (0%)
- Level II (Qualified): 2,543 (35%)
- Level III (Experienced): 4,263 (59%)
- Level IV (Expert): 444 (6%)
Trend (2020-2026)
- Starting median: $122,408
- Current median: $150,405
- Growth: +23%
Salary & Hiring Visualizations
Salary Distribution
Distribution of H-1B salaries at CISCO
CISCO's H-1B salaries range from $96,600 to $175,000 (10th-90th percentile), with a median of $133,300. This is 11% above the national H-1B median.
Wage Level Distribution
DOL wage levels affect H-1B lottery priority
CISCO files 100% of H-1B positions at Level II or higher. Higher wage levels receive priority in the H-1B lottery, giving CISCO candidates a competitive advantage.
Median Salary Trend
Year-over-year salary changes
CISCO's median H-1B salary increased by +23% from FY 2020 ($122,408) to FY 2026 ($150,405). This strong growth reflects competitive compensation adjustments.
H-1B Filings by Year
Annual hiring activity through H-1B program
CISCO's H-1B filings changed by -87% from FY 2020 to FY 2026. This may reflect changes in hiring strategy or workforce composition.
Salary by Job Title
Top roles by filing volume, showing salary distribution
The highest-volume H-1B role at CISCO is Software Engineer with 1,976 filings at $132,080 median salary.
Salary by Location
Salary distribution across office locations (sorted by median)
CISCO's largest H-1B hub is San Jose, CA with 3,134 filings. The highest-paying location is Milpitas, CA at $160,300 median.
Highest Paying H-1B Roles at CISCO
Ranked by median salary — Unlike "Salary by Job Title" above which shows the most common roles by filing volume, this section ranks all H-1B positions by their median compensation to highlight the best-paying opportunities.
These are the top 10 highest-paying H-1B job titles at CISCO, ranked by median salary. The highest-paying role is Lead Software Engineer at $166,518 median, which is 25% above the company's overall H-1B median of $133,300.
High-paying H-1B roles typically require advanced technical expertise, specialized domain knowledge, or significant leadership responsibility. Factors influencing top-tier compensation include years of experience, educational credentials (PhD, Master's degrees), rare skill combinations, and market demand for specific technologies. The salary distribution chart below each role shows how compensation varies—wider distributions indicate more salary negotiation flexibility, while narrow peaks suggest standardized pay bands. Senior and principal-level positions consistently command premium salaries due to their strategic impact and scarcity of qualified candidates.
Lead Software Engineer
461 H-1B filings at CISCO
Product Manager
336 H-1B filings at CISCO
Architect
505 H-1B filings at CISCO
Software Engineer
1,976 H-1B filings at CISCO
QA Engineer
285 H-1B filings at CISCO
Technical Consulting Engineer
258 H-1B filings at CISCO
Salary data based on 9,173 certified H-1B labor condition applications at CISCO. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, specific role requirements, and location within the company.
Highest Individual H-1B Salaries at CISCO
Actual filed salaries — These are the 10 highest individual H-1B salary filings at CISCO, representing specific positions (not aggregated medians). These may include executive, highly specialized, or senior leadership roles.
The highest H-1B salary filed at CISCO was $525,000 for a Svp, Chief Information Officer position in San Jose, CA (FY2021). This is 294% higher than the company's median H-1B salary.
Top H-1B salaries often cluster in high cost-of-living metros like San Francisco, New York, and Seattle where prevailing wages are higher. However, executive and specialized roles can command premium compensation regardless of location. These filings represent the upper bound of H-1B compensation at CISCO—actual total compensation may be significantly higher when including stock grants, bonuses, and benefits. Geographic patterns in top salaries often reflect where companies locate their most senior technical talent and leadership positions.
Marker size indicates salary level. Click markers for details.
| Rank | Job Title | Location | Salary | Level | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Svp, Chief Information Officer | San Jose, CA | $525,000 | N/A | FY 2021 |
| 2 | Vice President, Finance | San Jose, CA | $440,000 | II | FY 2020 |
| 3 | Vice President, Engineering | San Jose, CA | $432,758 | II | FY 2020 |
| 4 | Vp, Enterprise Architect (910) - Cas-49557-Q9G8R0 | San Jose, CA | $325,000 | N/A | FY 2021 |
| 5 | Principal Machine Learning Engineer | Milpitas, CA | $322,500 | IV | FY 2025 |
| 6 | Vp/Gm, Engineering | San Francisco, CA | $315,000 | IV | FY 2021 |
| 7 | Vp, Supply Chain | San Jose, CA | $306,000 | IV | FY 2025 |
| 8 | Appd Executive | San Jose, CA | $300,000 | IV | FY 2020 |
| 9 | Appd Executive | San Francisco, CA | $300,000 | IV | FY 2020 |
| 10 | Director, Strategy & Planning | San Jose, CA | $296,622 | N/A | FY 2026 |
These represent the highest individual salary amounts filed in H-1B labor condition applications. Note: H-1B salary data reflects base compensation only and does not include stock options, RSUs, bonuses, or other benefits which can significantly increase total compensation at tech companies.
Detailed Breakdown
H-1B Job Titles at CISCO
| Job Title | Filings | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Software Engineer | 1,976 | $132,080 |
| Architect | 505 | $137,700 |
| Lead Software Engineer | 461 | $166,518 |
| Product Manager | 336 | $141,200 |
| QA Engineer | 285 | $122,700 |
| Technical Consulting Engineer | 258 | $97,700 |
H-1B Locations for CISCO
| Location | Filings | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| San Jose, CA | 3,134 | $147,534 |
| Research Triangle Park, NC | 800 | $112,000 |
| San Francisco, CA | 776 | $144,444 |
| Richardson, TX | 539 | $114,300 |
| Milpitas, CA | 422 | $160,300 |
| Austin, TX | 329 | $121,700 |
| Morrisville, NC | 306 | $121,700 |
| Seattle, WA | 182 | $136,053 |
| Chicago, IL | 148 | $101,005 |
| Boxborough, MA | 144 | $128,418 |
Recent H-1B Filings at CISCO
Sample of 20 recent certified H-1B labor condition applications. This represents a small fraction of CISCO's 9,173 total certified filings.
| Job Title | Location | Salary | Level | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High Touch Engineering Technical Leader | Morrisville, NC | $150,700 | III | FY 2026 |
| Lead Frontend Developer | San Francisco, CA | $191,400 | III | FY 2026 |
| Data Analyst | Boston, MA | $100,200 | II | FY 2026 |
| Director, Strategy & Planning | Austin, TX | $200,400 | IV | FY 2026 |
| Product Manager | Milpitas, CA | $181,293 | III | FY 2026 |
| Engineering Technical Leader | Milpitas, CA | $226,138 | III | FY 2026 |
| Customer Experience Customer Success Technical Leader | Dunlap, IL | $161,900 | III | FY 2026 |
| Cloud Engineer | Milpitas, CA | $177,993 | N/A | FY 2026 |
| Lead Mechanical Engineer | San Jose, CA | $168,800 | III | FY 2026 |
| QA Engineer | San Jose, CA | $165,422 | III | FY 2026 |
| Inside Account Executive - Architecture | Bellevue, WA | $98,488 | II | FY 2026 |
| Business Intelligence Manager | Richardson, TX | $118,893 | III | FY 2026 |
| UX Designer | Holly Springs, NC | $113,900 | II | FY 2026 |
| Architect | Downingtown, PA | $166,500 | III | FY 2026 |
| Lead Software Engineer | Fulton, MD | $163,600 | III | FY 2026 |
| Software Engineer | Mclean, VA | $150,758 | III | FY 2026 |
| Software Consulting Engineer | Richardson, TX | $135,800 | III | FY 2026 |
| Customer Success Manager | San Jose, CA | $178,800 | III | FY 2026 |
| Lead Software Engineer | San Francisco, CA | $187,574 | III | FY 2026 |
| Engineering Technical Leader | Research Triangle Park, NC | $166,500 | III | FY 2026 |
Data source: U.S. Department of Labor LCA Disclosure Files. Showing most recent certified filings.
Frequently Asked Questions about CISCO H-1B Visas
What is the average H-1B salary at CISCO?
The median H-1B salary at CISCO is $133,300, based on 9,173 certified filings from FY 2020 to FY 2026. This is 11% higher than the national H-1B median salary of $120,000. Compensation at CISCO reflects their market positioning, with entry-level roles starting around $114,500 and senior positions reaching $175,000 or higher. These figures represent base salaries in LCA filings and may not include bonuses, equity grants, or other compensation common at large employers.
Salaries at CISCO range from $96,600 at the 10th percentile to $175,000 at the 90th percentile, showing a $78,400 spread across experience levels and roles. The 25th percentile is $114,500 and the 75th percentile is $155,000.
Does CISCO sponsor H-1B visas?
Yes, CISCO actively sponsors H-1B visas and has been a consistent participant in the H-1B program. They have filed 9,198 H-1B labor condition applications from FY 2020 to FY 2026, demonstrating ongoing commitment to hiring international talent. With 9,173 certified applications and a 0.1% denial rate, CISCO maintains a strong track record for H-1B sponsorship. The company sponsors positions across multiple job categories and locations, making them a viable option for professionals seeking H-1B visa sponsorship.
In the most recent fiscal year (FY 2026), CISCO filed 154 H-1B applications, with 154 certified and 0 denied. Over 7 years of data, CISCO has consistently demonstrated commitment to H-1B sponsorship.
Note: These are Labor Condition Applications (LCAs) filed with the Department of Labor, which is a prerequisite for H-1B petitions. The actual number of H-1B petitions filed with USCIS may differ.
What is CISCO's H-1B approval rate?
CISCO's LCA (Labor Condition Application) denial rate is 0.1%, with 8 out of 9,198 applications denied across all years. This translates to a 99.9% certification rate, which indicates how successfully the company prepares and files H-1B applications. A lower denial rate suggests better compliance with Department of Labor requirements, proper wage documentation, and accurate job classification. Prospective H-1B applicants should consider this approval rate alongside other factors like salary, job role, and location when evaluating CISCO as a potential H-1B sponsor.
This is an excellent approval rate, indicating CISCO has strong H-1B sponsorship practices and typically meets DOL requirements. Applicants can feel confident in the company's H-1B track record.
What jobs does CISCO sponsor for H-1B?
CISCO sponsors H-1B visas for various specialty occupation positions requiring at least a bachelor's degree. Based on 9,173 certified filings, the most commonly sponsored job titles reflect the company's primary business functions and talent needs. These positions typically require specialized knowledge in fields like technology, engineering, finance, or scientific research. Understanding which roles CISCO most frequently sponsors can help job seekers target their applications effectively.
Most common H-1B job titles at CISCO:
The most frequently sponsored role is Software Engineer with 1,976 filings at a median salary of $132,080. This is followed by Architect (505 filings) and Lead Software Engineer.
Where are CISCO's H-1B jobs located?
CISCO's H-1B positions are distributed across multiple U.S. locations, with concentration in major metropolitan areas and tech hubs. Geographic distribution often reflects company office locations, client sites, and regional market demands. Location significantly impacts H-1B salary due to varying cost of living and local wage requirements. Understanding where CISCO sponsors H-1B workers can help candidates target specific offices and negotiate appropriate compensation for each market.
Top CISCO H-1B locations:
Circle size indicates relative H-1B filing volume
The largest H-1B hub for CISCO is San Jose, CA with 3,134 filings at a median salary of $147,534. The highest-paying location is Milpitas, CA at $160,300 median. Salaries range from $101,005 to $160,300 across office locations.
How have CISCO's H-1B salaries changed over time?
CISCO's median H-1B salary has increased by +23% from FY 2020 ($122,408) to FY 2026 ($150,405). Tracking salary trends over time reveals how CISCO adjusts compensation to remain competitive in the H-1B labor market. Salary growth typically reflects inflation adjustments, increased demand for specialized skills, and evolving prevailing wage requirements. These historical trends can help applicants understand future salary expectations and negotiate appropriately when considering H-1B opportunities at CISCO.
Year-by-year breakdown:
- FY 2022: $127,500 (2,127 certified)
- FY 2023: $130,354 (1,272 certified)
- FY 2024: $133,300 (1,234 certified)
- FY 2025: $140,400 (1,233 certified)
- FY 2026: $150,405 (154 certified)
This 23% growth reflects strong compensation adjustments at CISCO, keeping pace with market demands for H-1B talent.
What wage level does CISCO use for H-1B?
CISCO primarily files H-1B applications at Wage Level III, accounting for 59% of their filings. DOL wage levels range from Level I (entry-level, 17th percentile of local wages) to Level IV (expert, 67th percentile). Wage level determines both salary requirements and, under recent H-1B rules, lottery selection priority. Higher wage levels receive preference in the H-1B lottery, making CISCO's wage level distribution an important factor for prospective applicants assessing their chances of H-1B selection.
With 100% of positions at Level II or higher, CISCO typically offers competitive wages above entry-level. Higher wage levels receive priority in the H-1B lottery.
How does CISCO's H-1B salary compare to other employers?
CISCO's median H-1B salary of $133,300 is 11% higher than the national H-1B median of $120,000 across all employers and industries. This comparison provides context for evaluating CISCO's competitiveness in attracting H-1B talent. Keep in mind that industry, location, and job function significantly impact salary levels. Tech companies and financial institutions typically offer higher H-1B salaries than other sectors, while salaries in major metros like San Francisco and New York exceed those in smaller markets. Compare CISCO's offerings with similar companies in your field for a more accurate assessment.
CISCO offers above-average H-1B compensation. Combined with their 9,173 certified filings and 0.1% denial rate, they demonstrate solid H-1B sponsorship practices.
How do new H-1B fees and rules affect CISCO's sponsorship?
Recent H-1B rule changes have increased filing fees and introduced wage-level prioritization in the lottery. CISCO's higher proportion of Level III-IV positions (65%) may benefit from wage-based lottery prioritization.
With 9,173 certified filings, CISCO invests significantly in H-1B sponsorship. The company's 0.1% denial rate suggests strong compliance with H-1B requirements and documentation standards.
Note: H-1B regulations are subject to change. Fees shown are estimates based on 2024 USCIS fee schedules. Actual costs may vary based on company size, premium processing, and future rule changes.
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