SA Graphics: Here are the companies with the most H-1B visas approved this year

The introduction of a $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applications has sparked a debate about the program's impact on American workers, with concerns about job displacement and wage reductions raised by opponents.

Proponents of the H-1B visa argue that these visa holders play a crucial role in alleviating labor shortages in STEM fields, supporting domestic workers rather than competing with them.

Prominent tech leaders are divided on the issue, with some, like Jensen Huang and Sam Altman, supporting the fee, while others, such as Garry Tan, criticize it for potentially hindering innovation and pushing tech development abroad.

Recommendation Rating: Balanced Perspective on H-1B Visa Fee Debate

The recent introduction of a $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applications has ignited discussions concerning the demand for STEM professionals in the United States and their role in the economy.

Proponents of the fee argue that the H-1B visa program competes with American workers, potentially leading to job displacement and wage reduction. Conversely, supporters claim that H-1B visa holders provide invaluable support to domestic workers by addressing labor shortages in STEM sectors.

Notable tech leaders have voiced their opinions on the matter. Jensen Huang, CEO of Nvidia, and Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, have expressed their support for the fee, aligning with former President Trump’s stance. On the other hand, Garry Tan, CEO of Y Combinator—a startup accelerator—has criticized the fee, suggesting it poses significant challenges for emerging companies. He stated, "This current policy outcome is a substantial benefit to every overseas tech hub. Amid an AI race, we are effectively encouraging innovators to establish their operations abroad."

To provide a clearer understanding of the impact of the H-1B visa program, here’s an overview of the approvals for H-1B applications by companies as of June 30, FY 2025:

USCIS Data