Google has advised employees to avoid international travel due to significant delays in U.S. visa reentry processing, which could extend up to 12 months.
CUPERTINO, CA – Google has issued a warning to some of its employees regarding international travel, citing substantial delays in U.S. visa reentry processing at American embassies and consulates. These delays may extend up to 12 months in certain cases.
In an email sent to staff, Google’s external immigration law firm advised employees who require visa stamping before returning to the United States to reconsider any non-essential travel. The firm cautioned that international travel could result in workers being stranded abroad for extended periods due to significant backlogs in appointment availability.
The message emphasized the limited slots for visa stamping, urging affected employees to avoid travel that is not critical. The delays are being reported in multiple countries as U.S. diplomatic missions implement enhanced social media screening requirements. These new reviews impact H-1B workers and their dependents, as well as students and exchange visitors on F, J, and M visas.
The U.S. State Department has acknowledged these processing delays, noting that it is conducting online presence reviews for applicants. While travelers may request expedited processing, such requests are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, leaving many uncertain about their travel plans.
The current H-1B visa policy has faced criticism from lawmakers and business organizations, leading to legal challenges, including two significant lawsuits. One of these lawsuits has been initiated by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the largest business organization in the country.
Notably, professionals from India accounted for over 70 percent of approved H-1B visas in 2024, a trend driven by ongoing backlogs and the persistent demand for skilled workers from the region, according to reports.
As the situation evolves, Google’s advisory serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding international travel and visa processing in the current climate.
According to IANS, the ongoing challenges in visa processing continue to impact many employees and their ability to travel freely.