An OpenAI researcher who worked on GPT-4.5 had their green card denied
a year ago
- #AI Research
- #Immigration Policy
- #OpenAI
- Kai Chen, a Canadian AI researcher at OpenAI, was denied a U.S. green card after living in the country for 12 years.
- Noam Brown, an OpenAI scientist, expressed concern over the decision, stating it risks America's AI leadership by turning away top talent.
- Chen played a crucial role in developing GPT-4.5 and will now work remotely from Vancouver until the situation is resolved.
- The Trump administration has increased barriers for foreign talent, including green card applicants and international students.
- OpenAI relies heavily on foreign researchers, filing over 80 H1-B visa applications last year alone.
- Immigrants have significantly contributed to the U.S. AI industry, with 66% of top AI startups having immigrant founders.
- Many researchers are considering leaving the U.S. due to restrictive immigration policies and funding cuts.