Nvidia CEO Criticizes Trump’s $100K H-1B Visa Fee, Cites Potential Impact on Global Talent

Jensen Huang, CEO of Nvidia, has expressed concerns over the Trump administration’s proposal to increase the H-1B visa application fee from $1,000 to $100,000. While acknowledging the intent to prevent misuse of the visa system, Huang warned that the steep fee could deter international students and skilled professionals from pursuing opportunities in the United States.

In a recent appearance on The BG2 Podcast, Huang stated, “It’s a great start, but the $100,000 fee probably sets the bar a little too high.” He emphasized that such a significant financial barrier might make the “American dream” less attainable for global talent.

The H-1B visa program allows U.S. companies to employ foreign professionals in specialized roles, particularly in sectors like technology and engineering. The proposed fee increase aims to encourage employers to prioritize domestic hiring. However, critics argue that the high cost could disproportionately affect smaller companies and startups, potentially hindering innovation and competition.

Huang, a Taiwanese immigrant who moved to the U.S. as a teenager, views immigration as a cornerstone of American innovation. He believes that the desire of talented individuals to come to and stay in the U.S. are key indicators of future success.

Nvidia, one of the largest employers of H-1B visa holders in the U.S., filed 1,519 applications in the last fiscal year. The company employs approximately 36,000 people globally.

While Huang sees the visa fee revision as a step toward addressing potential abuses, he cautioned that it should not be the final measure. He advocates for policies that balance the prevention of misuse with the need to attract and retain top global talent.

The proposed fee increase has sparked debate across the tech industry, with some welcoming it as a necessary reform and others expressing concerns about its potential impact on innovation and competitivenes