Skip to main content

MICROSOFT H-1B Visa Sponsorship & Salary Data

Including: LINKEDIN, NUANCE COMMUNICATIONS

MICROSOFT has filed 61,385 H-1B labor condition applications from FY 2020 to FY 2026, with 61,202 certified. The median H-1B salary at MICROSOFT is $156,000, which is 30% higher than the national H-1B median of $120,000.

61,202
Certified Filings
FY 2020-2026
$156,000
Median Salary
+30% vs national
0%
Denial Rate
16 denied of 61,385
7
Years of Data
FY 2020-2026

Salary Analysis

Salary Range

  • 10th percentile: $122,000
  • 25th percentile: $136,540
  • Median: $156,000
  • 75th percentile: $176,900
  • 90th percentile: $198,600

Wage Level Distribution

  • Level I (Entry): 6,207 (11%)
  • Level II (Qualified): 24,789 (42%)
  • Level III (Experienced): 21,480 (37%)
  • Level IV (Expert): 5,960 (10%)

Trend (2020-2026)

  • Starting median: $141,330
  • Current median: $180,710
  • Growth: +28%

Salary & Hiring Visualizations

Salary Distribution

Distribution of H-1B salaries at MICROSOFT

MICROSOFT's H-1B salaries range from $122,000 to $198,600 (10th-90th percentile), with a median of $156,000. This is 30% above the national H-1B median.

Wage Level Distribution

DOL wage levels affect H-1B lottery priority

MICROSOFT files 89% of H-1B positions at Level II or higher. Higher wage levels receive priority in the H-1B lottery, giving MICROSOFT candidates a competitive advantage.

Median Salary Trend

Year-over-year salary changes

MICROSOFT's median H-1B salary increased by +28% from FY 2020 ($141,330) to FY 2026 ($180,710). This strong growth reflects competitive compensation adjustments.

H-1B Filings by Year

Annual hiring activity through H-1B program

MICROSOFT's H-1B filings changed by -82% 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

Program Manager (2,065)
$143K
Research Scientist (1,509)
$143K
Software Engineer (33,743)
$154K
Senior Software Engineer (3,322)
$157K
Product Manager (1,851)
$172K
$50K $125K $200K $300K+

The highest-volume H-1B role at MICROSOFT is Software Engineer with 33,743 filings at $154,350 median salary.

Salary by Location

Salary distribution across office locations (sorted by median)

Atlanta, GA (1,955)
$128K
Bellevue, WA (4,659)
$153K
Sunnyvale, CA (5,258)
$157K
Redmond, WA (33,227)
$158K
Mountain View, CA (3,320)
$177K
$50K $125K $200K $300K+

MICROSOFT's largest H-1B hub is Redmond, WA with 33,227 filings. The highest-paying location is Mountain View, CA at $176,805 median.

Highest Paying H-1B Roles at MICROSOFT

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 MICROSOFT, ranked by median salary. The highest-paying role is Product Manager at $171,932 median, which is 10% above the company's overall H-1B median of $156,000.

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.

1

Product Manager

1,851 H-1B filings at MICROSOFT

$171,932
+10% vs company median
$50K-$75K: 0.0%
$75K-$100K: 0.0%
$100K-$125K: 0.1%
$125K-$150K: 4.9%
$150K-$175K: 16.1%
$175K-$200K: 33.5%
$200K-$225K: 25.5%
$225K-$250K: 15.5%
$250K-$275K: 3.8%
$275K-$300K: 0.5%
$300K-$325K: 0.1%
$50K $150K $250K $400K+
2

Senior Program Manager

1,004 H-1B filings at MICROSOFT

$165,555
+6% vs company median
$50K-$75K: 0.0%
$75K-$100K: 0.0%
$100K-$125K: 0.1%
$125K-$150K: 0.7%
$150K-$175K: 10.3%
$175K-$200K: 60.1%
$200K-$225K: 25.7%
$225K-$250K: 3.2%
$250K-$275K: 0.0%
$275K-$300K: 0.0%
$300K-$325K: 0.0%
$50K $150K $250K $400K+
3

Senior Software Engineer

3,322 H-1B filings at MICROSOFT

$157,477
+1% vs company median
$50K-$75K: 0.0%
$75K-$100K: 0.0%
$100K-$125K: 0.0%
$125K-$150K: 0.8%
$150K-$175K: 30.3%
$175K-$200K: 48.3%
$200K-$225K: 16.6%
$225K-$250K: 2.4%
$250K-$275K: 1.0%
$275K-$300K: 0.5%
$300K-$325K: 0.0%
$50K $150K $250K $400K+
4

Software Engineer

33,743 H-1B filings at MICROSOFT

$154,350
-1% vs company median
$50K-$75K: 0.0%
$75K-$100K: 0.0%
$100K-$125K: 0.9%
$125K-$150K: 10.6%
$150K-$175K: 32.3%
$175K-$200K: 31.1%
$200K-$225K: 16.4%
$225K-$250K: 6.6%
$250K-$275K: 1.6%
$275K-$300K: 0.4%
$300K-$325K: 0.0%
$50K $150K $250K $400K+
5

Research Scientist

1,509 H-1B filings at MICROSOFT

$143,350
-8% vs company median
$50K-$75K: 0.0%
$75K-$100K: 0.0%
$100K-$125K: 0.1%
$125K-$150K: 15.9%
$150K-$175K: 43.7%
$175K-$200K: 30.2%
$200K-$225K: 8.7%
$225K-$250K: 1.3%
$250K-$275K: 0.1%
$275K-$300K: 0.0%
$300K-$325K: 0.0%
$50K $150K $250K $400K+
6

Program Manager

2,065 H-1B filings at MICROSOFT

$142,502
-9% vs company median
$50K-$75K: 0.0%
$75K-$100K: 0.0%
$100K-$125K: 2.8%
$125K-$150K: 18.0%
$150K-$175K: 40.6%
$175K-$200K: 23.4%
$200K-$225K: 11.2%
$225K-$250K: 3.3%
$250K-$275K: 0.5%
$275K-$300K: 0.1%
$300K-$325K: 0.0%
$50K $150K $250K $400K+

Salary data based on 61,202 certified H-1B labor condition applications at MICROSOFT. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, specific role requirements, and location within the company.

Highest Individual H-1B Salaries at MICROSOFT

Actual filed salaries — These are the 10 highest individual H-1B salary filings at MICROSOFT, representing specific positions (not aggregated medians). These may include executive, highly specialized, or senior leadership roles.

The highest H-1B salary filed at MICROSOFT was $425,250 for a Vp1, Talent Solutions position in Roswell, GA (FY2025). This is 173% 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 MICROSOFT—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.

Where are the highest-paid H-1B positions located?

Marker size indicates salary level. Click markers for details.

Rank Job Title Location Salary Level Year
1 Vp1, Talent Solutions Roswell, GA $425,250 IV FY 2025
2 Vice President, Customer Success & Insights San Francisco, CA $377,530 IV FY 2023
3 Vice President, Customer Success & Insights San Francisco, CA $375,000 IV FY 2021
4 Product Manager Mountain View, CA $341,250 IV FY 2020
5 Principal Research Scientist Redmond, WA $336,290 IV FY 2020
6 Software Engineer Mountain View, CA $314,000 IV FY 2025
7 Software Engineer Mountain View, CA $313,500 III FY 2025
8 Business Planner Mountain View, CA $310,000 IV FY 2022
9 Business Planner Mountain View, CA $310,000 IV FY 2023
10 Software Engineer Redmond, WA $310,000 IV 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 MICROSOFT

Job Title Filings Median Salary
Software Engineer 33,743 $154,350
Senior Software Engineer 3,322 $157,477
Program Manager 2,065 $142,502
Product Manager 1,851 $171,932
Research Scientist 1,509 $143,350
Senior Program Manager 1,004 $165,555

H-1B Locations for MICROSOFT

Location Filings Median Salary
Redmond, WA 33,227 $158,000
Sunnyvale, CA 5,258 $157,477
Bellevue, WA 4,659 $153,232
Mountain View, CA 3,320 $176,805
Atlanta, GA 1,955 $128,000
New York, NY 1,102 $157,500
Irving, TX 1,021 $124,808
San Francisco, CA 1,016 $156,959
Austin, TX 685 $150,000
Issaquah, WA 563 $142,740

Recent H-1B Filings at MICROSOFT

Sample of 20 recent certified H-1B labor condition applications. This represents a small fraction of MICROSOFT's 61,202 total certified filings.

Job Title Location Salary Level Year
Software Engineer Redmond, WA $191,692 III FY 2026
Staff Software Engineer New York, NY $221,000 IV FY 2026
Business Analytics Redmond, WA $175,904 III FY 2026
Software Engineer Sunnyvale, CA $148,740 N/A FY 2026
Customer Experience Engineering Smyrna, GA $189,337 III FY 2026
Software Engineer Redmond, WA $240,000 IV FY 2026
Staff Software Engineer Sunnyvale, CA $264,514 IV FY 2026
Software Engineer Redmond, WA $166,320 II FY 2026
Product Design Redmond, WA $215,000 III FY 2026
Cloud Solution Architecture Chicago, IL $219,995 IV FY 2026
Software Engineer Celina, TX $141,923 II FY 2026
Staff Software Engineer Sunnyvale, CA $212,505 N/A FY 2026
Software Engineer Redmond, WA $180,710 III FY 2026
Software Engineer Lewis Center, OH $175,200 III FY 2026
Software Engineer Redmond, WA $188,534 III FY 2026
Software Engineer Sunnyvale, CA $148,740 N/A FY 2026
Staff Software Engineer Sunnyvale, CA $264,514 IV FY 2026
Software Engineer Mountain View, CA $235,007 III FY 2026
Product Manager Redmond, WA $161,189 II FY 2026
Customer Experience Engineering Redmond, WA $211,299 IV FY 2026

Data source: U.S. Department of Labor LCA Disclosure Files. Showing most recent certified filings.

Frequently Asked Questions about MICROSOFT H-1B Visas

What is the average H-1B salary at MICROSOFT?

The median H-1B salary at MICROSOFT is $156,000, based on 61,202 certified filings from FY 2020 to FY 2026. This is 30% higher than the national H-1B median salary of $120,000. Compensation at MICROSOFT reflects their market positioning, with entry-level roles starting around $136,540 and senior positions reaching $198,600 or higher. These figures represent base salaries in LCA filings and may not include bonuses, equity grants, or other compensation common at large employers.

10th %ile Median 90th %ile
$122,000 $156,000 $198,600

Salaries at MICROSOFT range from $122,000 at the 10th percentile to $198,600 at the 90th percentile, showing a $76,600 spread across experience levels and roles. The 25th percentile is $136,540 and the 75th percentile is $176,900.

Does MICROSOFT sponsor H-1B visas?

Yes, MICROSOFT actively sponsors H-1B visas and has been a consistent participant in the H-1B program. They have filed 61,385 H-1B labor condition applications from FY 2020 to FY 2026, demonstrating ongoing commitment to hiring international talent. With 61,202 certified applications and a 0% denial rate, MICROSOFT 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.

H-1B Filing History
20
21
22
23
24
25
26

In the most recent fiscal year (FY 2026), MICROSOFT filed 1,650 H-1B applications, with 1,650 certified and 0 denied. Over 7 years of data, MICROSOFT 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 MICROSOFT's H-1B approval rate?

MICROSOFT's LCA (Labor Condition Application) denial rate is 0%, with 16 out of 61,385 applications denied across all years. This translates to a 100.0% 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 MICROSOFT as a potential H-1B sponsor.

Approval vs Denial Rate
100.0% Certified
61,202 certified 16 denied

This is an excellent approval rate, indicating MICROSOFT 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 MICROSOFT sponsor for H-1B?

MICROSOFT sponsors H-1B visas for various specialty occupation positions requiring at least a bachelor's degree. Based on 61,202 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 MICROSOFT most frequently sponsors can help job seekers target their applications effectively.

Most common H-1B job titles at MICROSOFT:

Software Engineer
$154,350
Senior Software Engineer
$157,477
Program Manager
$142,502
Product Manager
$171,932
Research Scientist
$143,350

The most frequently sponsored role is Software Engineer with 33,743 filings at a median salary of $154,350. This is followed by Senior Software Engineer (3,322 filings) and Program Manager.

Where are MICROSOFT's H-1B jobs located?

MICROSOFT'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 MICROSOFT sponsors H-1B workers can help candidates target specific offices and negotiate appropriate compensation for each market.

Top MICROSOFT H-1B locations:

Circle size indicates relative H-1B filing volume

The largest H-1B hub for MICROSOFT is Redmond, WA with 33,227 filings at a median salary of $158,000. The highest-paying location is Mountain View, CA at $176,805 median. Salaries range from $124,808 to $176,805 across office locations.

How have MICROSOFT's H-1B salaries changed over time?

MICROSOFT's median H-1B salary has increased by +28% from FY 2020 ($141,330) to FY 2026 ($180,710). Tracking salary trends over time reveals how MICROSOFT 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 MICROSOFT.

Median Salary Trend
20
21
22
23
24
25
26

Year-by-year breakdown:

  • FY 2022: $150,000 (12,925 certified)
  • FY 2023: $162,897 (8,666 certified)
  • FY 2024: $161,490 (10,526 certified)
  • FY 2025: $170,643 (10,118 certified)
  • FY 2026: $180,710 (1,650 certified)

This 28% growth reflects strong compensation adjustments at MICROSOFT, keeping pace with market demands for H-1B talent.

What wage level does MICROSOFT use for H-1B?

MICROSOFT primarily files H-1B applications at Wage Level II, accounting for 42% 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 MICROSOFT's wage level distribution an important factor for prospective applicants assessing their chances of H-1B selection.

Wage Level Distribution
I
II
III
IV
I: 11% II: 42% III: 37% IV: 10%

With 89% of positions at Level II or higher, MICROSOFT typically offers competitive wages above entry-level. Higher wage levels receive priority in the H-1B lottery.

How does MICROSOFT's H-1B salary compare to other employers?

MICROSOFT's median H-1B salary of $156,000 is 30% higher than the national H-1B median of $120,000 across all employers and industries. This comparison provides context for evaluating MICROSOFT'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 MICROSOFT's offerings with similar companies in your field for a more accurate assessment.

vs National H-1B Median
MICROSOFT
$156,000
National
$120,000
+30% above national median

This places MICROSOFT among the higher-paying H-1B sponsors in the industry. Candidates considering H-1B sponsorship should weigh this competitive compensation alongside other factors like role growth, location, and visa processing track record.

How do new H-1B fees and rules affect MICROSOFT's sponsorship?
Estimated H-1B Sponsorship Costs (FY 2025)
I-129 Base Filing Fee $1,655
ACWIA Fee (25+ employees) $1,500
Fraud Prevention Fee $500
Asylum Program Fee $600
H-1B Registration Fee $215
Premium Processing (optional) $2,805
Estimated Total per H-1B $4,470 - $7,275+

Recent H-1B rule changes have increased filing fees and introduced wage-level prioritization in the lottery. MICROSOFT files 11% of positions at Level I, which may face more lottery competition under wage-level prioritization rules.

With 61,202 certified filings, MICROSOFT invests significantly in H-1B sponsorship. The company's 0% 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.

Companies Similar to MICROSOFT

Employers with similar H-1B salary ranges and filing volumes.

Loading similar companies...