Tech Giants Advise H-1B Visa Holders Against Travel Amid Backlogs

Post by : Raina Nasser

Prominent tech companies like Google, Apple, and Microsoft have issued urgent warnings to their H-1B visa-holding employees to avoid international travel. These warnings stem from concerns around extended delays in visa processing that may hinder timely returns to the United States.

The advisory follows the implementation of more stringent visa checks by the U.S. government, which has resulted in extensive backlogs at various embassies and consulates, leading to months-long delays for visa appointments.

Employees are cautioned that any travel could result in having to secure a new visa stamp in situations where their original stamp expires. Given the current challenges in obtaining visa appointments, many may face prolonged stays outside the U.S.

U.S. officials indicate that embassies are now prioritizing thorough examinations of each visa case, which has significantly slowed down processing times.

Microsoft's Alert

Microsoft has informed its employees of substantial delays with visa appointments extending up to 2026 in some cases. This issue is particularly prominent in cities such as Chennai and Hyderabad. The increase in delays is attributed to a policy change effective December 15, which involves evaluating online and social media engagement for H-1B and H-4 visa holders, reducing daily processing rates.

The company emphasized that obtaining emergency visa appointments is improbable and advised employees currently in the U.S. to reconsider any travel plans that might jeopardize their return.

Google's Recommendations

Google has reiterated the substantial risk of travel delays, noting that processing times for visa stamps can take up to a year owing to increased demand and stringent scrutiny.

This caution affects various visa categories, including H-1B, H-4, F, J, and M visas, with employees advised that travel could lead to extended periods away from the U.S.

Apple's Advisory

Apple has alerted its employees that unexpected delays could hinder their return to the U.S. after international trips. The company strongly discouraged travel for those lacking a valid H-1B visa stamp.
Those who must embark on travel are recommended to consult immigration specialists to thoroughly understand possible repercussions.

ServiceNow's Guidance

ServiceNow has cautioned employees traveling to India for visa stamping about significant potential delays, advising the cancellation of such trips when feasible.

Nonetheless, ServiceNow has indicated a willingness to evaluate exceptional circumstances like medical or family emergencies and may permit exceptions to its remote work policies.

Implications of the Situation

New regulations and delays have turned even short trips abroad into potentially lengthy absences from the U.S., with some individuals facing returns delayed by several months or even up to a year.

This travel advisory regarding H-1B visa holders has triggered anxiety among those in the tech industry, as businesses urge their staff to remain vigilant in light of the ongoing issues.