Hu Xiu·2025-09-25 08:17Core Viewpoint - The recent executive order signed by Trump imposing a $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applicants has caused significant concern among tech giants and H-1B holders, highlighting the importance of the H-1B visa in the U.S. tech industry and the potential implications for talent acquisition and retention [2][6][7]. Group 1: Importance of H-1B Visa - The H-1B visa is crucial for the U.S. tech industry, with approximately 700,000 holders, primarily from India and China [3][21]. - Many prominent tech leaders, including Elon Musk and Sundar Pichai, have immigrated to the U.S. through the H-1B program [4][19]. - The demand for H-1B visas has led to a lottery system since 2004 due to overwhelming applications exceeding the annual cap [11][12]. Group 2: Reaction from Tech Companies - Following the announcement of the new fee, major companies like Microsoft and Amazon issued urgent advisories to H-1B holders to remain in the U.S. [6][30]. - The initial confusion surrounding the executive order led to panic among H-1B holders, prompting some to cancel travel plans [23][31]. - The White House later clarified that the fee applies only to new applicants and is a one-time charge, alleviating some concerns but leaving uncertainty for the future [7][34]. Group 3: Mixed Reactions from Industry Leaders - Some industry leaders view the $100,000 fee as a less aggressive measure compared to potential complete cancellations of the H-1B program [36][39]. - High-profile figures like Musk and Nvidia's Jensen Huang have expressed support for reforms to the H-1B system, emphasizing the need for attracting top talent [38][42]. - However, the financial burden of the new fee could deter many potential applicants, particularly affecting smaller companies more than tech giants [44][47].