The H-1B visa program has long played a vital role in the US immigration system. It is a gateway for high-skilled foreign professionals, especially in technology, engineering, and finance.
Some large corporations are still increasing their use of the program in spite of the stricter regulations put in place during the Trump administration.
According to a recent Newsweek report, a number of leading companies have actually raised the number of H-1B visa sponsorships they offer in 2025.
Top companies sponsoring H-1B visas in 2025
Amazon remains the largest H-1B visa sponsor, with approvals rising from 9,257 in 2024 to 10,044 in 2025, which is a modest increase of 787, especially when viewed in the context of its 1.56 million global employees.
JPMorgan Chase follows with an increase of 721 approvals.
Other major tech players also ramped up sponsorships. Microsoft saw an increase of 464 visas, Apple added 329, and Meta Platforms gained 279.
Additional companies showing notable increases include Cisco Systems, Tata Consultancy Services, Visa Technology and Operations, Amazon Web Services, General Motors, and Amazon Data Services.
H-1B visa growth over the years
In 2024, approximately 400,000 H-1B visas were approved, more than double the number from 2000. However, the majority of these were renewals rather than new issuances.
The cap for new H-1B visas remains at 85,000 per year. Tech giants such as Amazon, Microsoft, and Google continue to dominate H-1B hiring, using the program to retain foreign-born professionals, particularly from India.
In fact, Indian nationals accounted for 72% of all H-1B approvals in FY2023, according to USCIS.
While the tech and financial sectors remain the biggest users of the program, other industries, including healthcare, consulting, and manufacturing, are increasingly relying on H-1B workers for specialised STEM and clinical roles.
Supporters of the H-1B program argue that it brings critical skills and innovation to the US. However, others worry that expanding the program may reduce job opportunities for domestic workers.