Santa Clara, 8 October 2025 — NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang has reaffirmed his company’s commitment to the U.S. H-1B visa program in the face of President Donald Trump’s newly imposed US$100,000 fee on new applications. Huang emphasized that immigration remains vital for innovation, and said NVIDIA will continue sponsoring H-1B visas and cover the associated costs.
In a message to staff, Huang noted, “Legal immigration remains essential to ensuring the U.S. continues to lead in technology and ideas.” He also framed the fee change as a “great start” in the broader context of reforming the visa system, albeit with caution about the high cost burden on smaller companies.
The Trump administration’s executive order, effective 21 September 2025, requires the additional fee only for new H-1B applicants, not for renewals or those already holding a visa.
Significance & Potential Impacts
- Talent retention & global competition: Huang’s stance underscores the tension between restrictive immigration policies and the tech industry’s reliance on highly skilled foreign professionals.
- Barrier for startups: While NVIDIA can absorb the extra cost, many smaller firms may struggle, potentially dampening innovation and migration of talent overseas.
- Policy signal: Huang’s support may lend credibility to the policy’s proponents who argue for stronger mechanisms to manage visa program integrity while maintaining openness for in-demand skills.
- Industry ripple effects: Other tech firms heavily d
