Tech and Politics: Sam Altman and Other Leaders Respond to H-1B Visa Fee Increase

Wednesday, 24 September 2025, 14:22

Tech leaders such as Sam Altman and Jensen Huang respond to Trump’s new $100,000 fee on H-1B visas. Companies face challenges in hiring international talent.
Businessinsider
Tech and Politics: Sam Altman and Other Leaders Respond to H-1B Visa Fee Increase

Tech Leaders' Concerns Over H-1B Visa Fee Increase

In a significant move, President Trump has increased the H-1B visa application fee by $100,000 through an executive order. The H-1B program, essential for hiring foreign tech talent, now faces scrutiny from major industry figures.

Reactions from Industry Leaders

  • Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, emphasized the potential barriers this fee raises for tech companies.
  • Jensen Huang, Nvidia's CEO, voiced similar concerns regarding the implications for innovation.
  • Companies like Amazon and Meta have advised their employees on H-1B visas to remain in the US amidst worries of job security.

The Impact on Technology Recruiting

This abrupt financial hurdle might deter many international applicants, thereby affecting the tech sector's ability to recruit skilled labor. As the US typically grants about 85,000 H-1B visas annually, the implications of this fee are profound.

Tech companies heavily rely on skilled foreign workers to fulfill in-demand roles, including engineering and software development.


This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.

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