Why is Google Cautioning Employees About International Travel?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Google has issued a warning to its employees regarding international travel due to significant visa processing delays. With some delays extending up to 12 months, employees may find themselves stranded abroad. This development raises critical concerns about the H-1B visa program and the impact on skilled workers, particularly from India.
Key Takeaways
- Google warns employees against international travel.
- Visa re-entry processing delays could last up to 12 months.
- Employees risk being stranded abroad due to appointment backlogs.
- Delays impact H-1B workers, dependents, and exchange visitors.
- Elon Musk advocates for Indian immigrants in the US workforce.
New Delhi, Dec 20 (NationPress) The renowned tech company Google has advised certain employees against international travel due to alarming delays in US visa re-entry processing at American embassies and consulates, which could last up to 12 months.
According to Business Insider, Google's external legal counsel, BAL Immigration Law, informed employees requiring visa stamping for US return that overseas travel may result in being stranded because of prolonged delays in visa stamping appointments, potentially reaching 12 months.
The email from BAL Immigration Law urged impacted employees to refrain from international travel, citing unusually lengthy appointment backlogs at diplomatic missions and warning that travelers could “face an extended stay outside the US.”
These delays are being reported in various countries as US missions enforce enhanced social media screening protocols affecting H-1B workers, their families, and students and exchange visitors holding F, J, and M visas.
The US Department of State has acknowledged these delays, stating that it is conducting “online presence reviews for applicants” and that applicants can request expedited processing on a case-by-case basis.
In November, the White House clarified its stance on visa policy, informing IANS that the $100,000 application fee is a “significant first step to prevent system abuses.”
This administration's H-1B visa policy faces considerable opposition from lawmakers and legal challenges, including two major lawsuits initiated by the US Chamber of Commerce, the largest business organization in the country.
Workers from India accounted for over 70 percent of the total H-1B visas approved in 2024, largely due to a significant backlog in approvals and a high influx of skilled immigrants from India.
Recently, Elon Musk defended the H-1B visa program, asserting that the US economy has greatly benefited from Indian immigrants. He emphasized that America requires high-skill workers from India now more than ever, while also criticizing the misuse of the visa system by certain outsourcing companies.
Point of View
It is essential to highlight the implications of Google's warning on international travel for its employees. The delays in visa processing could significantly affect the workforce, particularly skilled immigrants from India. Staying informed about these developments is crucial for understanding the broader effects on the employment landscape in the US.
NationPress
20/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the current delays in US visa processing?
US visa re-entry processing is facing significant delays, with some appointments taking up to 12 months to secure.
Why is Google advising against international travel?
Google is cautioning employees about traveling abroad due to the risk of being stranded because of long visa stamping appointment delays.
Which countries are affected by these delays?
Delays are being reported across several countries as US embassies and consulates implement enhanced screening requirements.
What is the impact of these delays on H-1B visa holders?
H-1B visa holders may face extended stays outside the US due to the prolonged visa stamping process.
What has Elon Musk said about the H-1B visa program?
Elon Musk has defended the H-1B visa program, stating that the US economy benefits significantly from Indian immigrants.
