Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai has highlighted the significant role immigrants have played in shaping the United States technology sector, describing their contributions as “phenomenal.” Speaking in an interview with a broadcaster he said the government recognises this value and continues to create pathways for skilled individuals despite ongoing debates around the H1B visa programme.
Pichai said, “If you look at the history of technology development, the contribution of immigrants to the sector has been nothing but phenomenal.” He acknowledged that the H1B system has its “shortcomings” but added, “I think there’s a framework by which we all can still bring talented individuals. I think they’re making changes to address some of the shortcomings in the current programme.”
Pichai’s own journey mirrors that of many skilled workers. He first arrived in the United States as an international student before obtaining an H1B visa and eventually rising to lead Google and its parent company. His remarks align with his long standing support for immigrant workers. In 2020 he wrote on X, “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.”
The discussion around H1B visas intensified after former President Donald Trump proposed a one hundred thousand dollar fee for new applications in September. The White House later clarified that the aim is to reduce misuse of the programme rather than eliminate it.
However a new proposal from Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene aims to “completely eliminate” the H1B programme and end its path to permanent residency, which she said would “force” immigrants to leave the country once their visas expire. Her plan includes a single exception allowing up to ten thousand visas per year for medical professionals such as doctors and nurses.
If enacted, the legislation would have a major impact on Indian workers who make up more than 70 percent of approved H1B applications in recent years. Many of these applicants are skilled workers in STEM roles drawn to strong economic opportunities in the United States.
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