UPWORK H-1B Visa Sponsorship & Salary Data

The median H-1B salary at UPWORK is $180,000, based on 106 certified filings from FY 2021 to FY 2026. This is 50% higher than the national H-1B median salary of $120,000. Compensation at UPWORK reflects their market positioning, with entry-level roles starting around $142,126 and senior positions reaching $250,000 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 UPWORK range from $112,466 at the 10th percentile to $250,000 at the 90th percentile, showing a $137,534 spread across experience levels and roles. The 25th percentile is $142,126 and the 75th percentile is $216,470.

Yes, UPWORK actively sponsors H-1B visas and has been a consistent participant in the H-1B program. They have filed 111 H-1B labor condition applications from FY 2021 to FY 2026, demonstrating ongoing commitment to hiring international talent. With 106 certified applications and a 0% denial rate, UPWORK 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), UPWORK filed 2 H-1B applications, with 2 certified and 0 denied. Over 6 years of data, UPWORK 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.

UPWORK's LCA (Labor Condition Application) denial rate is 0%, with 0 out of 111 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 UPWORK as a potential H-1B sponsor.

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

UPWORK sponsors H-1B visas for various specialty occupation positions requiring at least a bachelor's degree. Based on 106 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 UPWORK most frequently sponsors can help job seekers target their applications effectively.

Most common H-1B job titles at UPWORK:

The most frequently sponsored role is Senior Product Manager with 16 filings at a median salary of $200,000. This is followed by Senior Software Engineer (7 filings) and Senior UX Designer.

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

Top UPWORK H-1B locations:

The largest H-1B hub for UPWORK is San Francisco, CA with 28 filings at a median salary of $171,870. The highest-paying location is Kirkland, WA at $245,000 median. Salaries range from $112,466 to $245,000 across office locations.

UPWORK's median H-1B salary has increased by +119% from FY 2021 ($120,931) to FY 2026 ($264,514). Tracking salary trends over time reveals how UPWORK 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 UPWORK.

Year-by-year breakdown:

• FY 2022: $190,000 (28 certified)
• FY 2023: $190,000 (17 certified)
• FY 2024: $195,840 (18 certified)
• FY 2025: $230,000 (14 certified)
• FY 2026: $264,514 (2 certified)

This 119% growth reflects strong compensation adjustments at UPWORK, keeping pace with market demands for H-1B talent.

UPWORK primarily files H-1B applications at Wage Level IV, accounting for 50% 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 UPWORK's wage level distribution an important factor for prospective applicants assessing their chances of H-1B selection.

With 98% of positions at Level II or higher, UPWORK typically offers competitive wages above entry-level. Higher wage levels receive priority in the H-1B lottery.

UPWORK's median H-1B salary of $180,000 is 50% higher than the national H-1B median of $120,000 across all employers and industries. This comparison provides context for evaluating UPWORK'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 UPWORK's offerings with similar companies in your field for a more accurate assessment.

This places UPWORK 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.

Recent H-1B rule changes have increased filing fees and introduced wage-level prioritization in the lottery. UPWORK's higher proportion of Level III-IV positions (73%) may benefit from wage-based lottery prioritization.

With 106 certified filings, UPWORK 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.