Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about H-1B visa data and how to use H1B Data Hub
What is the H-1B visa?
The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant work visa that allows U.S. employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations. These occupations typically require a bachelor's degree or higher in a specific field, such as technology, engineering, finance, or healthcare.
Where does the data on H1B Data Hub come from?
All data comes from the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Foreign Labor Certification (OFLC). Employers must file a Labor Condition Application (LCA) before petitioning for an H-1B visa, and these filings are public record. We process and organize this data to make it easily searchable.
How often is the data updated?
The Department of Labor releases LCA disclosure data on a quarterly basis. We import new data shortly after each release, so our database typically reflects filings through the most recent completed quarter.
What does 'Certified' status mean?
A 'Certified' LCA means the Department of Labor has approved the employer's labor condition application. This does not guarantee the worker received the H-1B visa — USCIS makes the final visa decision. However, certification indicates the employer met prevailing wage and working condition requirements.
How are salaries calculated?
All salary figures on H1B Data Hub are normalized to annual equivalents. If an employer files an LCA with an hourly wage, we convert it to an annual figure based on 2,080 work hours per year (40 hours/week x 52 weeks). The average and median salaries shown are computed from certified applications only.
Can I search for a specific employer or job title?
Yes. Use the search bar on the homepage to look up any employer, job title, or location. You can also browse employer profiles, state-level data, and job title breakdowns through the navigation links.
Does an LCA filing mean the job is still available?
No. An LCA filing is part of the H-1B petition process and does not indicate a current job opening. The data reflects applications filed by employers, many of which are for existing employees or internal transfers.
Why do some companies show very high or very low salaries?
Salary variations can result from differences in job level (entry-level vs. senior), location (high cost-of-living areas pay more), and the specific occupation. Some outliers may also reflect part-time positions or data entry variations in LCA filings.
Is this data the same as actual H-1B approvals?
No. This data represents Labor Condition Applications (LCAs) filed with the Department of Labor, which is the first step in the H-1B process. Not all certified LCAs result in H-1B petitions, and not all petitions are approved by USCIS. The actual number of H-1B visas granted is typically lower than the number of LCA filings.
Is H1B Data Hub free to use?
Yes, H1B Data Hub is completely free. Our mission is to make H-1B visa salary data accessible and transparent for job seekers, researchers, employers, and anyone interested in immigration labor trends.