Nvidia Boosts H-1B Visas Amid Tech Layoffs

In contrast to major technology firms scaling back foreign recruitment, Nvidia has significantly increased its H-1B visa certifications. For the first two quarters of fiscal 2026, Nvidia secured certifications for approximately 1,200 H-1B positions, an increase from the previous year. This move offers a stark contrast to Google's H-1B approvals, which fell to around 2,200 from 5,100, and Amazon's, which dropped to about 4,300 from 6,100.

This development is particularly significant for Indian tech professionals, who constitute the largest segment of H-1B beneficiaries, making up 71-73% of approved visas. With many tech companies reducing their workforce and foreign hiring, H-1B workers face a tight 60-day window to secure new sponsorship after a layoff. Nvidia's continued hiring, especially in critical AI and engineering roles, presents a rare opportunity for these skilled workers.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, an immigrant himself, has emphasized the role of immigrant talent in the company's success. The company is offering highly competitive salaries, with base pay for software engineers reaching up to $391,000 annually. This hiring push spans AI research, chip design, and software engineering, underscoring Nvidia's strategic focus on maintaining its lead in the AI sector.