COGNIZANT H-1B Visa Sponsorship & Salary Data

The median H-1B salary at COGNIZANT is $94,411, based on 95,415 certified filings from FY 2020 to FY 2026. This is 21% lower than the national H-1B median salary of $120,000. Compensation at COGNIZANT reflects their market positioning, with entry-level roles starting around $81,744 and senior positions reaching $126,818 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 COGNIZANT range from $74,506 at the 10th percentile to $126,818 at the 90th percentile, showing a $52,312 spread across experience levels and roles. The 25th percentile is $81,744 and the 75th percentile is $110,469.

Yes, COGNIZANT actively sponsors H-1B visas in FY 2026. In the most recent fiscal year (FY 2026), COGNIZANT filed 5,770 H-1B labor condition applications with 5,766 certified and 0 denied, at a median salary of $111,030. Across FY 2020–2026, they have filed 96,561 total H-1B applications with 95,415 certified and a 0% lifetime denial rate, demonstrating ongoing commitment to hiring international talent. COGNIZANT 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), COGNIZANT filed 5,770 H-1B applications, with 5,766 certified and 0 denied. Over 7 years of data, COGNIZANT 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.

COGNIZANT's LCA (Labor Condition Application) denial rate is 0%, with 2 out of 96,561 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 COGNIZANT as a potential H-1B sponsor.

This is an excellent approval rate, indicating COGNIZANT has strong H-1B sponsorship practices and typically meets DOL requirements. Applicants can feel confident in the company's H-1B track record.

COGNIZANT sponsors H-1B visas for various specialty occupation positions requiring at least a bachelor's degree. Based on 95,415 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 COGNIZANT most frequently sponsors can help job seekers target their applications effectively.

Most common H-1B job titles at COGNIZANT:

The most frequently sponsored role is Manager with 22,319 filings at a median salary of $98,114. This is followed by Senior Systems Analyst (19,521 filings) and Manager - Computer Systems Engineers/Architects.

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

Top COGNIZANT H-1B locations:

The largest H-1B hub for COGNIZANT is Plano, TX with 5,202 filings at a median salary of $95,285. The highest-paying location is New York, NY at $103,730 median. Salaries range from $67,891 to $103,730 across office locations.

COGNIZANT's median H-1B salary has increased by +28% from FY 2020 ($86,778) to FY 2026 ($111,030). Tracking salary trends over time reveals how COGNIZANT 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 COGNIZANT.

Year-by-year breakdown:

• FY 2022: $94,723 (13,395 certified)
• FY 2023: $101,358 (12,952 certified)
• FY 2024: $100,090 (11,217 certified)
• FY 2025: $109,782 (11,069 certified)
• FY 2026: $111,030 (5,766 certified)

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

COGNIZANT primarily files H-1B applications at Wage Level III, accounting for 44% 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 COGNIZANT'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, COGNIZANT typically offers competitive wages above entry-level. Higher wage levels receive priority in the H-1B lottery.

COGNIZANT's median H-1B salary of $94,411 is 21% lower than the national H-1B median of $120,000 across all employers and industries. This comparison provides context for evaluating COGNIZANT'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 COGNIZANT's offerings with similar companies in your field for a more accurate assessment.

COGNIZANT's H-1B salaries are below the national median, though this may vary significantly by role, experience level, and location. Consider researching specific positions for more accurate compensation expectations.

Recent H-1B rule changes have increased filing fees and introduced wage-level prioritization in the lottery. COGNIZANT's higher proportion of Level III-IV positions (57%) may benefit from wage-based lottery prioritization.

With 95,415 certified filings, COGNIZANT 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.