The United States remains one of the world’s leading destinations for professionals in accounting and finance seeking high-paying opportunities with visa sponsorship. In 2026, the demand for skilled experts in these fields continues to grow, driven by a robust economy, complex regulatory environments, and the expansion of global businesses. Roles offering salaries exceeding $130,000 annually are particularly attractive to international talent, as many employers in this salary bracket are willing to sponsor visas such as the H-1B to secure top-tier professionals.
These high-compensation positions often include senior-level roles like Chief Financial Officers, Financial Controllers, Investment Banking Associates, and specialized Financial Analysts. Employers range from the Big Four accounting firms—Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG—to major investment banks like JPMorgan Chase and Goldman Sachs, as well as corporations in tech, healthcare, and manufacturing. Visa sponsorship is more common in these elevated roles because companies recognize the value of diverse, globally experienced talent in navigating international markets and compliance standards.
This guide explores the landscape of $130K+ accounting and finance jobs with visa sponsorship potential in the United States. It provides detailed insights into key career paths, employer trends, required qualifications, top locations, and practical steps for applying. Whether you hold advanced degrees, professional certifications like CPA or CFA, or extensive experience, these opportunities can offer not only substantial financial rewards but also long-term career growth and pathways to permanent residency.
High-Demand Accounting and Finance Roles Offering $130K+ Salaries and Visa Sponsorship
The accounting and finance sector in the U.S. features a variety of roles that command salaries above $130,000, particularly at senior and specialized levels. These positions often qualify for H-1B visa sponsorship because they require bachelor’s or master’s degrees in specialized fields, along with demonstrated expertise that meets the “specialty occupation” criteria set by U.S. immigration authorities.
1. Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
The Chief Financial Officer is one of the most prestigious and highest-paying roles in finance, responsible for overseeing an organization’s entire financial strategy. CFOs develop long-term financial plans, manage risk, ensure regulatory compliance, and advise the CEO and board on mergers, acquisitions, and investments. In larger companies or public firms, CFOs lead teams handling budgeting, forecasting, investor relations, and capital allocation.
Salaries for CFOs in the U.S. typically range from $200,000 to over $400,000 annually, with total compensation including bonuses and equity often exceeding $500,000 in Fortune 500 companies. Factors influencing pay include company size, industry (higher in tech and finance sectors), and location. Visa sponsorship is feasible for exceptional international candidates with proven executive experience, as firms like multinational corporations and private equity-backed companies actively seek global perspectives.
To qualify, candidates usually need an MBA or advanced degree in finance or accounting, plus 10-15 years of progressive experience, often including time as a Controller or VP of Finance. Certifications such as CPA or CFA enhance prospects. Big Four alumni frequently transition into CFO roles, and firms like EY and Deloitte have sponsored H-1B visas for high-level finance positions.
2. Financial Controller
Financial Controllers manage day-to-day accounting operations, ensuring accurate financial reporting, compliance with GAAP, and internal controls. They oversee accounts payable/receivable, payroll, auditing, and tax preparation while producing financial statements and supporting strategic decisions.
Average salaries for Financial Controllers hover around $150,000 to $250,000, with senior roles in major cities or large enterprises pushing toward $300,000 including bonuses. In industries like manufacturing, tech, or healthcare, demand is high due to complex reporting needs. Many controllers report to the CFO and play a critical role in budgeting and forecasting.
Visa sponsorship occurs in multinational firms or those expanding internationally, where controllers with expertise in IFRS or cross-border transactions are valued. Requirements include a bachelor’s degree in accounting (master’s preferred), CPA certification, and 8+ years of experience. Proficiency in ERP systems like SAP or Oracle is essential.
3. Investment Banking Associate or Vice President
Investment Banking professionals at the Associate or VP level advise on mergers and acquisitions, capital raising, and corporate restructuring. They build financial models, conduct valuation analyses (DCF, comparables), prepare pitch books, and manage deal execution.
Base salaries start at $150,000-$200,000 for Associates, with bonuses often doubling or tripling total compensation to over $300,000. In bulge bracket banks like Goldman Sachs or JPMorgan, top performers earn significantly more. These roles are concentrated in New York but available in other hubs.
While sponsorship is competitive due to the lottery system for H-1B, major banks have dedicated immigration support and sponsor for strong candidates from top schools or with prior experience. A master’s in finance (MFin or MBA) from a reputable program is often required, along with skills in Excel modeling and financial software.
4. Private Equity or Hedge Fund Analyst/Associate
In Private Equity, professionals evaluate investment opportunities, perform due diligence, monitor portfolio companies, and support exits. Hedge Fund roles involve quantitative analysis, risk management, and strategy development across asset classes.
Compensation is among the highest, with Associates earning $150,000-$250,000 base plus substantial carry and bonuses, often exceeding $400,000 total. Funds like Blackstone or Citadel value quantitative skills and market insight.
Sponsorship is possible in larger funds with global operations, though boutique firms may be less likely. Requirements include strong academic credentials, often in finance or economics, and experience from investment banking or consulting.
5. Senior Financial Analyst or FP&A Manager
Senior Financial Analysts in Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) forecast revenues, analyze variances, and support budgeting. In corporate settings, they partner with business units to drive profitability.
Salaries range from $130,000 to $180,000+, higher in tech or finance firms. Roles requiring advanced modeling or international experience often attract sponsorship from companies like Amazon or Google.
A bachelor’s or master’s in finance, CFA progress, and 5+ years experience are typical.
6. Tax Director or Manager
Tax professionals at senior levels manage corporate tax strategy, compliance, and planning, often dealing with international taxation.
Salaries exceed $150,000-$220,000 in Big Four or large corporations. Sponsorship is common in accounting firms with global clients.
CPA and master’s in taxation are key qualifications.
7. Quantitative Analyst (Quant) in Finance
Quants develop models for trading, risk, and pricing using mathematics and programming.
In hedge funds or banks, pay starts at $150,000+ with large bonuses. PhD or master’s in quantitative fields required; sponsorship frequent for STEM-designated roles.
8. Risk Management Director
Oversees credit, market, and operational risks, ensuring compliance.
Salaries $140,000-$200,000+ in banks. CRMP or FRM certifications helpful.
9. Treasury Manager or Director
Manages cash flow, liquidity, and hedging.
$130,000-$180,000 in corporates. CTP certification advantageous.
10. Internal Audit Director
Leads audits for compliance and efficiency.
Similar salary range; CIA certification preferred.
11. Corporate Development Manager
Handles M&A strategy and execution.
$140,000-$200,000+.
12. Forensic Accountant or Valuation Expert
Specialized roles in litigation or disputes, often $130,000+ in consulting.
These roles highlight the diversity and lucrativeness of the field.
Top Employers Offering Visa Sponsorship for High-Paying Roles
Big Four firms lead in sponsorship for accounting/finance, with EY filing thousands of LCAs annually. Banks like JPMorgan and tech giants also sponsor.
Best Cities for These Opportunities
New York City dominates for investment banking and high finance. San Francisco excels in fintech and VC. Chicago is strong in trading and corporates.
Visa Sponsorship Process and Requirements
H-1B requires a bachelor’s degree in a specialty occupation. Process includes LCA and petition.
READ ALSO: $130K+ Legal & Compliance Jobs in the USA with Visa Sponsorship
FAQs
What is the minimum salary for accounting and finance jobs with visa sponsorship in the U.S.?
There is no single minimum salary, but visa-sponsored accounting and finance roles are typically mid- to senior-level positions. While some entry-level roles may start around $70,000–$90,000, many sponsored positions—especially in corporate finance, investment banking, risk management, and financial analysis—exceed $130,000 annually. Salaries vary widely based on job function, employer, industry, and city.
Which companies are most likely to sponsor visas for finance professionals?
Visa sponsorship is most common at large, well-established employers with global operations and immigration resources. These include:
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Big Four accounting firms (Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG)
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Major investment banks such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, and Citi
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Global consulting firms
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Multinational corporations with finance hubs in the U.S.
Smaller firms sponsor less frequently due to cost and administrative complexity.
Do I need a CPA or CFA for these jobs?
While not always mandatory, professional certifications such as CPA (Certified Public Accountant) and CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) are highly recommended, especially for visa-sponsored roles. These credentials:
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Improve credibility with U.S. employers
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Increase salary potential
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Strengthen H-1B eligibility by demonstrating specialized knowledge
For accounting roles, CPA is particularly valuable; for investment and portfolio management roles, CFA is often preferred.
Is H-1B sponsorship common in investment banking?
Yes, H-1B sponsorship is common at major investment banks, particularly for analyst, associate, and quantitative finance roles. Large banks routinely sponsor foreign professionals due to the technical and analytical nature of the work. However, competition is intense, and employers tend to favor candidates with strong academic backgrounds and prior relevant experience.
What are the top cities for $130K+ finance jobs?
High-paying finance roles are concentrated in major financial and business hubs, including:
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New York City – the largest concentration of investment banking, asset management, and hedge fund roles
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San Francisco / Bay Area – strong for fintech, venture capital, and corporate finance
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Chicago – major hub for trading, risk management, and corporate finance
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Boston and Los Angeles – growing opportunities in asset management and private equity
Higher pay often reflects higher cost of living in these cities.
Can I get visa sponsorship without a master’s degree?
Yes, it is possible to obtain visa sponsorship with a bachelor’s degree plus significant professional experience. However, having an advanced degree such as an MBA, Master’s in Finance, or Accounting greatly improves competitiveness. U.S. employers often prefer advanced degrees for sponsored roles, especially when H-1B eligibility is involved.
How long does the H-1B process take?
The H-1B process typically takes several months and includes:
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Employer registration for the H-1B lottery (usually in March)
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Lottery selection
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Petition filing and approval
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Visa issuance and start date (usually October 1)
Premium processing can speed up certain stages, but overall timing still depends on lottery selection.
Are there opportunities in private equity with visa sponsorship?
Yes, private equity firms do sponsor visas, especially larger funds and global investment firms. Sponsorship is more common for roles requiring advanced financial modeling, deal execution experience, or sector specialization. Smaller PE firms tend to sponsor less frequently due to lean staffing and legal costs.
What certifications boost chances of getting sponsored?
The most valuable certifications for sponsored finance roles include:
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CPA – essential for accounting, audit, and tax roles
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CFA – highly valued in investment management, equity research, and portfolio management
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FRM (Financial Risk Manager) – useful for risk and compliance roles
Certifications signal expertise and commitment, making candidates more attractive to sponsoring employers.
Is relocation assistance common for sponsored finance jobs?
Yes, many employers that sponsor visas also provide relocation assistance packages. These may include:
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Visa and legal fees
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Relocation bonuses
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Temporary housing
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Moving expense reimbursement
Relocation support is more common for senior-level and specialized roles.
How competitive is the H-1B lottery?
The H-1B lottery is highly competitive, with demand far exceeding the annual cap. However, some employers qualify for cap-exempt H-1B visas, including:
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Universities
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Nonprofit research organizations
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Certain affiliated institutions
These options can significantly improve chances for eligible candidates.
Can family members work on dependent visas?
Yes, dependents on H-4 visas may be eligible to work in the U.S. if they qualify for an H-4 Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Eligibility depends on the primary H-1B holder’s immigration status, such as having an approved I-140.