Apple, Google tell workers on visas to avoid leaving the U.S. : NPR

Apple and Google are cautioning U.S.-based employees on visas against traveling abroad to avoid potential delays in returning, as the Trump administration tightens visa applicant vetting processes, according to internal memos reviewed by NPR.

U.S. consulates and embassies have experienced significant delays for visa appointments following new regulations from the Department of Homeland Security, which mandate travelers to undergo a screening of up to five years of their social media history.

Apple and Google, both major employers of highly skilled foreign workers, have advised some staff to refrain from international travel due to increased vetting and prolonged delays.

“We recommend avoiding international travel at this time as you risk an extended stay outside of the U.S.,” a law firm working with Google, Berry Appleman & Leiden, wrote to employees.

Law firm Fragomen, which works with Apple, echoed a similar sentiment advising employees without a valid H-1B visa stamp to avoid international travel for the time being.

Apple and Google declined to comment on the advisories, initially reported by Business Insider.

The Trump administration’s stringent immigration policies are impacting the foreign-born workforce in the U.S., as evidenced by the latest directives from Apple and Google.

Earlier this year, the White House announced a $100,000 fee for new H-1B visas, a visa type popular among tech companies.

Recent reports indicate that visa holders renewing their H-1Bs in India faced postponed appointments due to security concerns, highlighting the challenges faced by foreign workers under the current administration.

Google’s Alphabet Workers’ Union has been advocating for additional protections for H-1B visa holders, recognizing their vulnerability in case of layoffs.

The union’s leader emphasized the importance of supporting H-1B holders amidst heightened scrutiny by the Trump administration.