Tesla CEO Elon Musk says the US H-1B visa system is being “gamed” by outsourcing companies, but argues that the solution is to stop abuse—not dismantle the programme.
Indian professionals account for around 70% of all H-1B holders, many working in the tech and medical industries. Anxiety has grown since President Donald Trump introduced a 100,000 dollar fee for applicants in September.
Speaking on entrepreneur Nikhil Kamath’s podcast, Musk said America has long benefitted from skilled Indian workers but acknowledged concerns over misuse of the lottery-based programme.
Outsourcing firms have been accused of filing multiple entries for the same worker or using visas to import low-cost contractors.
Musk also weighed in on US-India trade tensions, following Washington’s 50% tariff on Indian goods and penalties linked to Russian oil purchases. Negotiations for a trade agreement are ongoing, with hopes of concluding by year-end.
