Ken Griffin Advocates Visas for Foreign Graduates of US Universities

Ken Griffin, the CEO and founder of Citadel, believes that foreign students graduating from American universities should be automatically issued visas.

Speaking at the Milken Institute Global Conference, Griffin emphasized the importance of retaining these students in the country. He mentioned, "The critical element is ensuring they remain here. However, our current approaches don't facilitate enough to make staying in America an easy or attractive option for many of these students."

Griffin stressed, "Upon graduating from any of America's prestigious universities or graduate schools, students should be granted an immediate visa stamp with their degree."

This proposal parallels an initiative that former President Donald Trump discussed during his previous campaign. Trump's stance was that foreign graduates from US colleges should directly receive permanent residency.

During a June broadcast of the "All-In" podcast, Trump stated, "Graduating from college should mean that you automatically receive a green card as part of your diploma, covering even community colleges."

Griffin has a history of urging administrations to maintain the US as a hub for global talent.

At a meeting with the Economic Club of New York in November, Griffin advocated for strengthened southern US borders but also urged a considered approach to immigration policy.

He expressed, "I envision Washington implementing an immigration policy that is insightful, securing our nation’s position as the desired destination for those with dreams to fulfill."

In his first presidency, Trump had scrutinized the H-1B visa program, originally designed for skilled foreign professionals.

Tech giants like Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta benefit from the H-1B visas, which annually allow for the hiring of up to 85,000 foreign professionals in the US.

Despite his earlier stance, in December, Trump confirmed to the New York Post his favorable view of the program, commenting on his frequent use and belief in its merits.

"The H-1B program is fantastic, and numerous holders of these visas work at my properties," Trump remarked.

Attempts to contact Griffin's representatives at Citadel for comments went unanswered by Business Insider.