Google and Apple Warn Employees on Visas to Avoid International Travel
Law firms representing Google and Apple have issued warnings to employees who need a visa stamp to re-enter the United States. This comes due to longer-than-usual visa processing times, according to Business Insider.
The memos from BAL Immigration Law (representing Google) and Fragomen (representing Apple) advise employees to avoid international travel for now. This is because of unpredictable, extended delays when returning to the U.S.
Visa Processing Times Cause Concern
Emphasizing the need for caution, the Fragomen memo stated, “Given the recent updates and the possibility of unpredictable, extended delays when returning to the U.S., we strongly recommend that employees without a valid H-1B visa stamp avoid international travel for now.”
A State Department spokesperson confirmed that embassies are prioritizing thoroughly vetting each visa case above all else.
Impact on Indian Professionals
Salon reports that hundreds of Indian professionals who traveled home to renew their U.S. work visas in December have had their U.S. embassy appointments canceled or rescheduled due to new requirements for social media vetting.
This development has added to the concerns of employees and employers alike.
Previous Warnings Issued
Both Google and Apple, along with other large tech employers, issued similar warnings in September when the White House announced that employers would have to pay a $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applications.
This move has sparked concerns about the impact on the tech industry and international workers.
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