Tesla Replaces Laid-Off U.S. Workers with Foreign H-1B Visa Employees

Tesla Replaces Laid-Off U.S. Workers with Foreign H-1B Visa Employees:- Tesla, the electric vehicle giant, has reportedly increased its hiring of foreign workers through H-1B visas following a significant wave of layoffs in the United States earlier this year.

According to a recent report from Electrek, Tesla has “ramped up its use of H-1B visas to replace U.S. workers” affected by layoffs. The company, which reduced its workforce by at least 14% in 2024, let go a substantial number of its 120,000 employees.

Visa Policy Sparks Debate

The report noted that Tesla’s move has garnered criticism, particularly from supporters of former President Donald Trump’s MAGA movement. Outrage intensified after Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO and its largest shareholder, along with Vivek Ramaswamy, co-chair of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), advocated for expanding the H-1B visa program. The pair suggested that foreign workers play a crucial role in bolstering American innovation.

Critics, however, argue that H-1B visas can displace U.S. workers and limit job opportunities for citizens. These visas tie foreign workers to the sponsoring company, meaning employees must either remain with the sponsor or leave the country.

Musk Defends H-1B Visas

Musk, who originally came to the U.S. on a student visa, is a staunch supporter of the H-1B program. Responding to criticism on X (formerly Twitter), he emphasized the contributions of immigrants to the U.S. economy.

“The reason I’m in America along with so many critical people who built SpaceX, Tesla, and hundreds of other companies that made America strong is because of H-1B,” Musk posted. He added a defiant message to critics: “Take a big step back and F— YOURSELF in the face. I will go to war on this issue the likes of which you cannot possibly comprehend.”

Electrek also noted that Musk’s journey to success began on a student visa, and his brother later admitted their initial business venture, Zip2, was launched while they were in the U.S. without proper documentation.

A Polarizing Issue

H-1B visas have long been a topic of heated debate. Proponents see them as essential for attracting global talent, while opponents argue they undermine opportunities for domestic workers. Tesla’s recent actions, combined with Musk’s outspoken defense of the visa program, have reignited discussions about immigration and employment policies in the tech sector.

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