Despite $100,000 H-1B visa fee, Nvidia will continue to sponsor, CEO Jensen Huang confirms

In a bold move amid rising uncertainty in the tech industry, Nvidia's CEO Jensen Huang has reaffirmed the company's commitment to sponsoring H-1B visas and covering all associated costs. This decision comes in the wake of a controversial executive order from President Donald Trump, which imposes a hefty $100,000 fee for new visa applications. Huang's announcement was aimed at easing the worries of tech employees, particularly those from India and China, who heavily depend on the H-1B visa program. In a message to staff, he emphasized Nvidia’s dedication to its diverse global workforce, highlighting the crucial role that immigrants play in the company's success. "As one of many immigrants at Nvidia, I recognize how the opportunities we've found in America have significantly impacted our lives," Huang stated. He reiterated that Nvidia’s achievements, especially in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence, are deeply rooted in the contributions of talented individuals from around the world. The recent executive order, effective from late September, mandates a $100,000 payment for all new H-1B visa applicants. However, it does not affect those already holding these visas or applicants who submitted their requests before September 21, 2025. H-1B visas are essential for businesses in specialty occupations, and the tech industry, particularly in California, has been one of the primary users of this program. Huang pointed out that Silicon Valley, which hosts Nvidia and other tech leaders, remains the top region for H-1B applications in the U.S., according to the latest USCIS data. He stressed that legal immigration is vital for the U.S. to maintain its leadership in technology and innovation. Despite the challenges posed by the new visa restrictions and fees, Nvidia's ongoing support for its workforce reflects a broader commitment to attracting global talent and ensuring the company's continued growth in the tech landscape.