Visa Processing Delays Prompt Caution for Tech Employees: Google and Apple Advised to Avoid International Travel
Law firms representing major tech companies like Google and Apple have advised employees who require a visa stamp to re-enter the United States to avoid traveling abroad due to longer visa processing times. Business Insider reports that memos from BAL Immigration Law (representing Google) and Fragomen (representing Apple) have cautioned employees about potential delays in visa processing. Fragomen's memo specifically recommends that employees without a valid H-1B visa stamp refrain from international travel at this time.
According to Business Insider, the State Department has stated that embassies are prioritizing thorough vetting of each visa case, leading to extended delays in visa processing. Salon has reported that many Indian professionals who traveled back to their home country in December to renew their U.S. work visas have had their embassy appointments canceled or rescheduled due to new social media vetting requirements.
TechCrunch has reached out to Google and Apple for comments on the situation. In September, both companies, along with other tech employers, issued similar warnings when the White House announced a $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applications. The ongoing visa processing delays and uncertainties have prompted caution among employees needing visa stamps for re-entry into the United States.
In conclusion, employees of tech companies like Google and Apple are advised to avoid international travel if they require a visa stamp to return to the United States due to extended visa processing times and uncertainties. The current prioritization of thorough vetting by embassies and new social media vetting requirements have led to cancellations and rescheduling of visa appointments for many professionals, particularly those from India. The situation has prompted warnings from law firms representing tech companies and underscores the challenges faced by employees seeking visa re-entry into the U.S.