Google and Apple Warn Visa-Holding Employees Against International Travel Amid Lengthy Delays
Alphabet’s Google and Apple have urged some U.S.-based employees on temporary work visas to avoid international travel due to significant delays in visa stamping appointments at American embassies and consulates. Internal memos cited by Business Insider revealed that workers could face waits of up to 12 months, raising concerns that staff might be stranded abroad if they travel.
Social Media Screening Slows Visa Processing
According to immigration law firms representing the companies, the backlog has been worsened by newly expanded social media screening requirements introduced under the Trump administration. These additional checks have extended visa processing times considerably, particularly for employees requiring revalidation of their visas before returning to the United States.
The advisory covers holders of H-1B, H-4, F, J, and M visas, Google’s memo stated. Some U.S. embassies and consulates are reportedly experiencing year-long appointment delays. The H-1B visa, widely used by technology companies to employ highly skilled foreign workers, has been especially affected.
Both Google and Apple declined to comment when contacted by Reuters.
Increased Vetting Raises Travel Risks
Earlier this month, the U.S. government confirmed tighter vetting procedures for H-1B applicants, including mandatory reviews of social media accounts. The changes are part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to heighten scrutiny of foreign workers in the U.S. technology sector.
Lawyers warn that visa holders travelling overseas could face prolonged stays abroad if unable to secure timely stamping appointments. In some cases, appointments have been postponed multiple times, forcing employers to manage extended absences and disruptions to critical projects.
Companies Advise Employees to Stay Put
In a similar advisory issued in September, Alphabet had already recommended that staff on temporary visas avoid non-essential travel. The company also urged employees whose visas were nearing expiration to remain within the U.S. until renewal processes were complete.
The stricter measures come amid broader tensions over U.S. immigration policies, which have introduced new financial and administrative burdens for companies relying on international talent. The $100,000 fee imposed this year for new H-1B applications has added to the challenges, further discouraging cross-border movement among skilled workers.
with inputs from Reuters