Washington: US visa delays have prompted major technology companies Google and Apple to caution some employees against travelling abroad, as concerns that extended embassy appointment backlogs could leave workers unable to re-enter the United States.
According to a report by Business Insider, Alphabet-owned Google and Apple have issued internal advisories to staff holding US work visas, urging them to avoid international travel unless absolutely necessary. Immigration law firms representing the companies have warned that delays for visa stamping appointments at US embassies and consulates have stretched as long as 12 months in some locations.
The advisory applies to employees holding H-1B, H-4, F, J and M visas, according to an internal memo circulated by Google. The memo noted that several US embassies and consulates worldwide are facing severe appointment shortages, increasing the risk that employees who travel overseas could be stranded outside the country for extended periods.
Law firms cited in the report said the delays have been driven by expanded social media screening requirements introduced by the administration of President Donald Trump. Under the revised rules, visa applicants are subject to enhanced background checks, including reviews of online activity, which has slowed processing times significantly.
Although Google and Apple have not publicly commented on the advisories, the situation reflects growing uncertainty for foreign professionals working in the US technology sector. The H-1B visa programme, which is widely used by technology firms to employ skilled workers from countries such as India and China, has been under increased scrutiny in recent months.
Earlier this year, the Trump administration announced stricter vetting for H-1B applicants and imposed a $100,000 fee for new visa applications. These measures have raised concerns across the industry about the ability of US firms to retain international talent.
In September, Alphabet had already strongly advised its employees on H-1B visas to remain in the US and avoid overseas travel due to similar risks. Immigration specialists have said that even routine trips could result in prolonged separation from jobs and families if embassy appointments are cancelled or rescheduled.
The warning highlights broader challenges facing skilled foreign workers in the US, as companies navigate tighter immigration controls and prolonged administrative delays that continue to disrupt workforce mobility.
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