Lawyers
SOC Code: 23-1011
Explore H1B visa sponsorship data for Lawyers positions. View salary ranges, top employers, and geographic distribution from 2,380 H1B filings (FY2022-2025).
Occupation Statistics
Top States for Lawyers
Top Employers
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All Lawyers H1B Sponsors
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About Lawyers H1B Sponsorship
The landscape for Lawyers seeking H1B sponsorship has seen a dramatic transformation recently. With a staggering 500.0% increase in filings from FY2024 to FY2025, the demand for international legal talent is at an all-time high. Currently, there are 10,581 H1B filings for Lawyers (SOC 23-1011), supported by a robust network of 3,102 employers willing to navigate the H1B visa process. This surge highlights how critical foreign-trained legal experts and JD holders are becoming in the globalized US legal market. For many, obtaining an H1B visa as a lawyer is a gateway to the world’s most prestigious legal systems. The notable filing volume suggests that law firms are increasingly looking abroad to fill specialized roles, especially in international business, intellectual property, and cross-border litigation. Whether you are a recent law graduate or an experienced practitioner, the current growth trend indicates a fertile environment for securing H1B sponsorship in the legal sector.
Salary Insights
Understanding the H1B salary for Lawyers is essential for any applicant negotiating an offer. The compensation for this role is highly competitive, reflecting the rigorous education and high stakes involved. The median salary for sponsored Lawyers stands at a generous $155,775, significantly higher than many other H1B-eligible occupations. This figure underscores the premium that US firms place on specialized legal expertise and international perspective. The salary range for Lawyers varies significantly based on practice area and geography, spanning from $71,656 at the P10 level to $235,000 or more at the P90 level. Factors such as working in high-cost-of-living hubs like New York or California can push compensation toward the higher end of this spectrum. When evaluating H1B sponsorship opportunities, candidates should consider how their specific legal niche and the location of the firm will influence their overall earning potential.
Top Employers Sponsoring This Role
The market for Lawyers H1B sponsorship is dominated by some of the most prestigious names in the legal industry, often referred to as 'Big Law.' Leading the pack are powerhouse firms such as Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom, and Kirkland & Ellis. These organizations are well-versed in the H1B visa process and frequently recruit international talent to manage complex, global portfolios. Other major sponsors include Simpson Thacher & Bartlett, Shearman & Sterling, and Davis Polk & Wardwell. These top employers are predominantly located in major legal hubs like New York (NY), California (CA), and Washington DC. However, firms in Florida (FL) and Texas (TX) are also increasingly active in H1B sponsorship. For a job seeker, targeting these top-tier firms is a strategic move, as they have the administrative infrastructure and financial capacity to handle the complexities of sponsoring foreign nationals, ensuring a smoother transition for the applicant.
Skills & Qualifications
Securing H1B sponsorship as a lawyer requires more than just a legal degree; it demands a specific blend of academic excellence and specialized skill sets. Most employers look for candidates who have obtained a Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited school or a Master of Laws (LLM) for foreign-trained attorneys. Passing a state bar exam, particularly in high-demand states like New York or California, is often a non-negotiable requirement for many firms sponsoring H1B visas. Beyond formal education, firms value lawyers with expertise in niche areas such as corporate law, securities regulation, or international arbitration. Proficiency in multiple languages and an understanding of international legal frameworks can also provide a significant edge. Strong analytical, writing, and negotiation skills are essential, as sponsored Lawyers are often tasked with high-stakes document drafting and complex advisory roles that require absolute precision and cultural fluency.
Tips for Getting H1B Sponsorship
If you are seeking an H1B visa as a lawyer, the current 500% year-over-year growth trend is an incredibly positive signal. To capitalize on this, you should focus your job search on the top-tier firms known for sponsorship, such as Skadden or Davis Polk. Networking within international bar associations and leveraging the career services of your LLM or JD program can help you identify firms that have a history of filing H1B petitions for international attorneys. Positioning yourself in high-growth states like New York, Texas, or Florida can also increase your chances of finding a sponsoring employer. Since the legal market is highly competitive, specializing in a field with a shortage of US-based talent—like cross-border tax law or emerging tech regulations—can make you a more attractive candidate for H1B sponsorship. Ensure your resume highlights your bar admissions and any unique international experience that sets you apart in the domestic US legal market.