The BRICS TimesIndia expressed concern over the new H-1B visa fee, warning it could create family hardships and humanitarian issues, and is examining the implications closely.
The H-1B visa has long enabled skilled professionals worldwide to strengthen the US technology sector. Among the most notable success stories are Elon Musk, Sundar Pichai, and Satya Nadella, who have left an enduring mark on American innovation.
For countless Indians, this visa represents the gateway to achieving the “American Dream.” However, on September 21, US President Donald Trump announced a $100,000 hike in H-1B visa fees, sparking major debates. Previously, H-1B fees usually ranged from $2,000 to $5,000.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick remarked that “all big companies” are on board with the change. He added that fewer visas will likely be issued under the 85,000 annual cap because “it’s just not economic anymore.”
Despite these challenges, the H-1B visa remains a cornerstone of the US tech ecosystem. Here’s how it shaped some of the biggest names in tech.
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Elon Musk
Musk, potentially on track to become the world’s first trillionaire, drives SpaceX, Tesla, Neuralink, and X Corp. He has employed talent from across the globe. Musk initially arrived in the US on a J-1 exchange visa and later transitioned to an H-1B visa to pursue studies and business opportunities.
“The reason I’m in America along with so many critical people who built SpaceX, Tesla and hundreds of other companies that made America strong is because of H1B,” Musk posted on X on December 28.
He also added, “Take a big step back and FUCK YOURSELF in the face. I will go to war on this issue the likes of which you cannot possibly comprehend.”
Yet, a day later, Musk described the program as “broken and needs major reform.”
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Satya Nadella
Microsoft CEO Nadella started his career in the 1990s under the H-1B visa program. He has emphasized the visa’s importance for attracting skilled talent essential to innovation and economic growth.
During Marketplace’s “Make Me Smart” podcast, Nadella said, “Every country should look at their immigration policy and, especially in this case, it’s about American competitiveness.” He added, “At least at Microsoft, when we think about H-1B, it’s mostly about high-skilled labor that allows us, an American company, to be globally competitive.”
Sundar Pichai
Google and Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai moved to the US as an international student and later joined the workforce through an H-1B visa.
On June 23, 2020, Pichai commented on X about the Trump administration’s temporary suspension of immigrant work visas. He wrote, “Immigration has contributed immensely to America’s economic success, making it a global leader in tech, and also Google the company it is today. Disappointed by today’s proclamation – we’ll continue to stand with immigrants and work to expand opportunity for all.”
Over the years, Pichai has overseen Alphabet’s ventures into AI, Google Cloud, and hardware like Pixel phones and Nest devices.
According to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services, Indians account for 71% of approved H-1B applications.
India Reaction
In response to the visa fee increase, India warned it might cause family disruptions and raise humanitarian concerns. The country is carefully analyzing the policy’s consequences and hopes the US will review the matter.
The Foreign Ministry stated, “The government has seen reports related to the proposed restrictions on the US H1B visa program. The full implications of the measure are being studied by all concerned, including by Indian industry, which has already put out an initial analysis clarifying some perceptions related to the H1B program.”
