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H-1B data current through FY 2026 Q1

UPGRADE H-1B Visa Sponsorship & Salary Data

Yes, UPGRADE sponsors H-1B visas. In FY 2026, UPGRADE filed 13 H-1B labor condition applications (12 certified) with a median salary of $165,797. Across FY 2020–2026, UPGRADE has filed 184 total H-1B applications with 167 certified and a lifetime median salary of $149,989, which is 25% higher than the national H-1B median of $120,000.

Post-$100K-fee sponsorship status

FY 2026 Q1: 2 certified LCAs

Certifications dated Oct 1 – Dec 31, 2025 — the first full quarter after the $100K H-1B fee took effect on September 21, 2025.

Still sponsoring — sharply reduced
6
FY 2020
4
FY 2021
4
FY 2022
10
FY 2023
3
FY 2024
11
FY 2025
2
FY 2026
Certified H-1B LCAs in Q1 (Oct–Dec) of each fiscal year for UPGRADE: FY 2020: 6; FY 2021: 4; FY 2022: 4; FY 2023: 10; FY 2024: 3; FY 2025: 11; FY 2026: 2;

UPGRADE certified 2 H-1B LCAs in FY 2026 Q1 — the first quarter after the $100K H-1B fee took effect on September 21, 2025. The 6-year Q1 baseline (FY 2020–2025) averages 6 certified filings per Q1, so this quarter came in 67% below the historical norm.

Compared to FY 2025 Q1 specifically (11 certified), FY 2026 Q1 is down 82%. The 6-year Q1 range runs from 3 (low) to 11 (peak in FY 2025).

These counts reflect DOL LCA certifications with decision_date in Oct–Dec — a proxy for post-fee sponsorship activity. LCAs do not distinguish cap-subject new hires (fee-exposed) from extensions, transfers, and change-of-status petitions (fee-exempt), so a drop does not cleanly translate to fewer H-1B workers at UPGRADE.

167
Certified Filings
FY 2020-2026
$149,989
Median Salary
+25% vs national
0%
Denial Rate
0 denied of 184
7
Years of Data
FY 2020-2026

Salary Analysis

Salary Range

  • 10th percentile: $103,002
  • 25th percentile: $125,486
  • Median: $149,989
  • 75th percentile: $169,562
  • 90th percentile: $204,214

Wage Level Distribution

  • Level I (Entry): 11 (7%)
  • Level II (Qualified): 19 (11%)
  • Level III (Experienced): 39 (23%)
  • Level IV (Expert): 97 (58%)

Trend (2020-2026)

  • Starting median: $139,776
  • Current median: $165,797
  • Growth: +19%

Salary & Hiring Visualizations

Salary Distribution

Distribution of H-1B salaries at UPGRADE

UPGRADE's H-1B salaries range from $103,002 to $204,214 (10th-90th percentile), with a median of $149,989. This is 25% above the national H-1B median.

Wage Level Distribution

DOL wage levels affect H-1B lottery priority

UPGRADE files 93% of H-1B positions at Level II or higher. Higher wage levels receive priority in the H-1B lottery, giving UPGRADE candidates a competitive advantage.

Median Salary Trend

Year-over-year salary changes

UPGRADE's median H-1B salary increased by +19% from FY 2020 ($139,776) to FY 2026 ($165,797).

H-1B Filings by Year

Annual hiring activity through H-1B program

UPGRADE's H-1B filings changed by 0% from FY 2020 to FY 2026.

Salary by Job Title

Top roles by filing volume, showing salary distribution

$99K
$137K
$50K $125K $200K $300K+

The highest-volume H-1B role at UPGRADE is Senior QA Automation Engineer with 10 filings at $163,613 median salary.

Salary by Location

Salary distribution across office locations (sorted by median)

San Francisco, CA (109)
$157K
$50K $125K $200K $300K+

UPGRADE's largest H-1B hub is San Francisco, CA with 109 filings. The highest-paying location is San Jose, CA at $168,834 median.

Highest Paying H-1B Roles at UPGRADE

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 UPGRADE, ranked by median salary. The highest-paying role is Senior Product Manager at $181,813 median, which is 21% above the company's overall H-1B median of $149,989.

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

Senior Product Manager

6 H-1B filings at UPGRADE

$181,813
+21% vs company median
2

Senior Security Engineer

6 H-1B filings at UPGRADE

$169,395
+13% vs company median
3

Senior Data Engineer

5 H-1B filings at UPGRADE

$168,834
+13% vs company median
4

Senior QA Automation Engineer

10 H-1B filings at UPGRADE

$163,613
+9% vs company median
$50K $175K $300K+
5

Security Engineer

5 H-1B filings at UPGRADE

$136,906
-9% vs company median
6

Data Scientist

7 H-1B filings at UPGRADE

$99,486
-34% vs company median

Salary data based on 167 certified H-1B labor condition applications at UPGRADE. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, specific role requirements, and location within the company.

Highest Individual H-1B Salaries at UPGRADE

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

The highest H-1B salary filed at UPGRADE was $290,000 for a Director Of Engineering position in San Francisco, CA (FY2024). This is 93% 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 UPGRADE—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 Director Of Engineering San Francisco, CA $290,000 IV FY 2024
2 Architect San Francisco, CA $264,514 IV FY 2026
3 Director Of Engineering San Francisco, CA $263,952 IV FY 2021
4 Senior Director Of Quality Assurance San Francisco, CA $248,768 IV FY 2023
5 Sr. Director, Credit Risk & Investor Analytics San Francisco, CA $227,115 IV FY 2023
6 Senior Director, Capital Markets San Francisco, CA $226,782 IV FY 2025
7 Principal Software Engineer San Francisco, CA $226,138 III FY 2026
8 Principal Software Engineer San Francisco, CA $226,138 III FY 2026
9 Head Of Capital Markets Execution San Francisco, CA $223,454 III FY 2025
10 Senior Data Engineer San Francisco, CA $211,536 IV FY 2025

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 UPGRADE

Job Title Filings Median Salary
Senior QA Automation Engineer 10 $163,613
Data Scientist 7 $99,486
Senior Product Manager 6 $181,813
Senior Security Engineer 6 $169,395
Security Engineer 5 $136,906
Senior Data Engineer 5 $168,834

H-1B Locations for UPGRADE

Location Filings Median Salary
San Francisco, CA 109 $156,749
Phoenix, AZ 8 $115,357
Atlanta, GA 5 $117,166
San Jose, CA 4 $168,834
Bellevue, WA 3 $149,074
Redwood City, CA 2 $143,250
Seattle, WA 2 $124,072
Wilmington, DE 2 $204,464
New Haven, CT 1 $114,171
Houston, TX 1 $126,963

Recent H-1B Filings at UPGRADE

Sample of 20 recent certified H-1B labor condition applications. This represents a small fraction of UPGRADE's 167 total certified filings.

Job Title Location Salary Level Year
Senior Security Engineer San Francisco, CA $165,797 III FY 2026
Principal Software Engineer San Francisco, CA $226,138 III FY 2026
Principal Security Engineer San Francisco, CA $203,840 III FY 2026
Senior QA Engineer San Francisco, CA $163,613 IV FY 2026
Senior IT Administrator Atlanta, GA $121,118 IV FY 2026
Principal Software Engineer San Francisco, CA $226,138 III FY 2026
Data Engineer San Francisco, CA $204,214 IV FY 2026
Senior QA Automation Engineer San Francisco, CA $163,613 IV FY 2026
Senior QA Automation Engineer San Francisco, CA $163,613 IV FY 2026
Associate Product Manager Phoenix, AZ $115,710 III FY 2026
Architect San Francisco, CA $264,514 IV FY 2026
Product Manager San Francisco, CA $150,405 III FY 2026
Senior Data Engineer San Francisco, CA $211,536 IV FY 2025
Head Of Capital Markets Execution San Francisco, CA $223,454 III FY 2025
Senior Business Intelligence Analyst San Francisco, CA $180,128 III FY 2025
Senior Security Engineer Dallas, TX $144,789 IV FY 2025
Principal Software Engineer Vancouver, WA $206,315 IV FY 2025
Data Engineer San Francisco, CA $170,893 III FY 2025
Product Analyst Phoenix, AZ $115,357 III FY 2025
Software Engineer San Francisco, CA $155,605 II FY 2025

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

Frequently Asked Questions about UPGRADE H-1B Visas

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

The median H-1B salary at UPGRADE is $149,989, based on 167 certified filings from FY 2020 to FY 2026. This is 25% higher than the national H-1B median salary of $120,000. Compensation at UPGRADE reflects their market positioning, with entry-level roles starting around $125,486 and senior positions reaching $204,214 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
$103,002 $149,989 $204,214

Salaries at UPGRADE range from $103,002 at the 10th percentile to $204,214 at the 90th percentile, showing a $101,212 spread across experience levels and roles. The 25th percentile is $125,486 and the 75th percentile is $169,562.

Does UPGRADE sponsor H-1B visas in 2026?

Yes, UPGRADE actively sponsors H-1B visas in FY 2026. In the most recent fiscal year (FY 2026), UPGRADE filed 13 H-1B labor condition applications with 12 certified and 0 denied, at a median salary of $165,797. Across FY 2020–2026, they have filed 184 total H-1B applications with 167 certified and a 0% lifetime denial rate, demonstrating ongoing commitment to hiring international talent. UPGRADE 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), UPGRADE filed 13 H-1B applications, with 12 certified and 0 denied. Over 7 years of data, UPGRADE 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 UPGRADE's H-1B approval rate?

UPGRADE's LCA (Labor Condition Application) denial rate is 0%, with 0 out of 184 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 UPGRADE as a potential H-1B sponsor.

Approval vs Denial Rate
100.0% Certified
167 certified 0 denied

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

UPGRADE sponsors H-1B visas for various specialty occupation positions requiring at least a bachelor's degree. Based on 167 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 UPGRADE most frequently sponsors can help job seekers target their applications effectively.

Most common H-1B job titles at UPGRADE:

The most frequently sponsored role is Senior QA Automation Engineer with 10 filings at a median salary of $163,613. This is followed by Data Scientist (7 filings) and Senior Product Manager.

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

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

Top UPGRADE H-1B locations:

Circle size indicates relative H-1B filing volume

The largest H-1B hub for UPGRADE is San Francisco, CA with 109 filings at a median salary of $156,749. The highest-paying location is Wilmington, DE at $204,464 median. Salaries range from $114,171 to $204,464 across office locations.

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

UPGRADE's median H-1B salary has increased by +19% from FY 2020 ($139,776) to FY 2026 ($165,797). Tracking salary trends over time reveals how UPGRADE 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 UPGRADE.

Median Salary Trend
20
21
22
23
24
25
26

Year-by-year breakdown:

  • FY 2022: $143,250 (20 certified)
  • FY 2023: $149,989 (32 certified)
  • FY 2024: $155,251 (28 certified)
  • FY 2025: $153,088 (44 certified)
  • FY 2026: $165,797 (12 certified)

UPGRADE has maintained steady salary growth for H-1B positions over this period.

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

UPGRADE primarily files H-1B applications at Wage Level IV, accounting for 58% 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 UPGRADE's wage level distribution an important factor for prospective applicants assessing their chances of H-1B selection.

Wage Level Distribution
II
III
IV
I: 7% II: 11% III: 23% IV: 58%

With 93% of positions at Level II or higher, UPGRADE typically offers competitive wages above entry-level. Higher wage levels receive priority in the H-1B lottery.

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

UPGRADE's median H-1B salary of $149,989 is 25% higher than the national H-1B median of $120,000 across all employers and industries. This comparison provides context for evaluating UPGRADE'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 UPGRADE's offerings with similar companies in your field for a more accurate assessment.

vs National H-1B Median
UPGRADE
$149,989
National
$120,000
+25% above national median

This places UPGRADE 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 UPGRADE'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
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. UPGRADE's higher proportion of Level III-IV positions (82%) may benefit from wage-based lottery prioritization.

With 167 certified filings, UPGRADE 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.

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