Jensen Huang Supports Trump’s $100K H-1B Visa Fee — With Caution
Washington / Silicon Valley, October 6, 2025 (Live Update) — Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has publicly voiced support for President Donald Trump’s recently introduced $100,000 application fee on new H-1B visas, but he warns the measure may carry unintended consequences. The Times of India+1
Speaking on the BG2 Podcast with investors Brad Gerstner and David Sacks, Huang described Trump’s move as “a great start” toward reforming the visa system. But he also cautioned that the price tag could deter talented foreign nationals and shift innovation outside U.S. borders. The Times of India
“It’s a great start,” Huang said, “but the $100,000 fee probably sets the bar a little too high.” The Times of India
🎯 What Huang Sees — And What He Fears
- Intent vs. impact: Huang accepts that the hike aims to curb visa misuse and protect domestic jobs. But he worries about collateral damage — namely, fewer foreign researchers and engineers willing to take the leap. The Times of India+1
- Startups at a disadvantage: He flagged that such steep visa costs may favor large, established tech firms that can absorb the burden — leaving smaller, innovation-focused companies at a competitive loss. Business Insider
- Talent migration risk: If America becomes inhospitable to global talent, innovation might take root elsewhere. Huang pointed out that the “American Dream” has historically attracted bright minds — and maintaining that appeal is crucial. The Times of India+1
- His own journey echoes the debate: As an immigrant from Taiwan who built Silicon Valley success, Huang views immigration not just as policy but as core to U.S. identity and capability. The Times of India+1
📌 Wider Backdrop & Reactions
- The $100,000 fee applies to new H-1B visa applications filed after September 21, 2025. It does not affect renewals or existing visa holders. Wikipedia+2Reuters+2
- A legal challenge was filed in San Francisco by a coalition of unions, employers, and academic groups, arguing the move overreaches the executive branch’s power. Reuters
- Business communities are sounding alarms — warning that the fee hike could dampen competitiveness and innovation in the U.S. The Times of India+1
- Meanwhile, critics in Congress and elsewhere call the fee too blunt, urging more balanced, skill-based immigration reforms. Business Insider+1
📰 What to Watch Next
- Court ruling: If the challenge succeeds, the policy may be overturned or modified.
- Policy tweaks: The administration might refine carve-outs (e.g. for startups, research institutions) in response to backlash.
- Global flows: Will students and professionals favor other tech hubs outside the U.S.?
- Industry impact: Will firms cut back hiring from abroad, or pass costs onto consumers?
If you like, I can also produce a local perspective (say, how Indian tech/vocational talent sees this), or a deep dive into how this may reshape the global tech hiring map. Do you want me to expand in either direction?