America’s immigration policy is driving away future AI leaders

Rest of World · 1 month ago · 39

The Trump administration proposed adding a $100,000 fee tied to Optional Practical Training while also tightening the post-degree stay window for students from 60 days to 30. In 2024, about 419,000 people were on OPT, and some AI-bound founders say the visa system is pushing them out of the U.S., as illustrated by Yang Zhilin returning to China to start Moonshot AI. As a result, fewer international AI researchers can plan long-term careers in the U.S., and rival countries step up recruitment and funding to attract them instead.