Recently, Elon Musk appeared on Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath’s podcast People by WTF, where he discussed about the H1B vVisa & highlighted how the United States has gained tremendously from Indian talent, particularly through the influx of skilled workers.
However, he cautioned that concerns over misuse of the H-1B visa system have complicated the broader immigration debate, even as he noted that the United States has benefitted greatly from Indian talent.
He noted that for many Indians, the once-promising American dream of top-tier education, high-paying jobs, improved living standards, and upward mobility is fading, as increasing U.S. visa limitations and unpredictable policies take their toll.
While discussing Trump’s H-1B visa program, Musk pointed out that the system isn’t without issues, noting: “There has been some misuse of the H-1B program… Some outsourcing companies have kind of gamed the system.”
However, he cautioned against drastic changes, stating that he does not support closing the H-1B program, as he believes it would be highly detrimental. He emphasized that within his own businesses, cost reduction is not the driving factor, noting that they offer above-average pay and are focused on attracting the most skilled individuals globally.
Kamath questioned why the United States seems increasingly opposed to immigration, sharing his own nervousness during a recent entry when he feared being detained. Musk attributed the change to political polarization and a rise in unlawful immigration, noting that opinions on the matter vary and there is no universal agreement.
Immigration Debate Across the Political Spectrum
Musk noted that both ends of the political spectrum fuel the tension. On the left, he said, there is support for “open borders, no holds barred,” even for migrants with criminal records.
Meanwhile, the right views immigrants as a threat to American jobs, though Musk challenged this perspective: “My direct observation is that there is always a scarcity of talented people… More talented people would be good.”