Google, Apple, Microsoft Warn Visa Holders Not to Travel Outside US

Major US technology companies, including Google, Microsoft, ServiceNow, and Apple, have issued internal advisories to employees holding US visas (particularly work-related visas like H‑1B, H‑4, F, J, and M), urging them to avoid international travel.

The guidance comes amid significant delays in visa processing at US embassies and consulates worldwide.

What the advisories say

According to memos reviewed by Business Insider, the advisories warned that obtaining a new visa stamp, which is required for re-entering the US after overseas travel, could take several months, and in some cases, up to a year.

The warnings specifically target employees who would need a new visa stamp to return to the US. Those with valid existing stamps are not affected, but the advisory highlights concerns about the growing backlog and bureaucratic delays at US diplomatic posts.

Impact on employees and corporate operations

Companies are signaling that these issues may affect talent retention and cross-border staffing plans. Delays in re-entry could disrupt international assignments, client meetings, and projects dependent on foreign talent.

The guidance applies mainly to H‑1B visa holders, the category most widely used by US tech companies, but it also affects family members and employees on student (F), exchange (J), or other temporary work (M) visas.

Delay causes and government context

The travel warnings reflect a combination of new US immigration policies and stricter vetting introduced recently. For example, consular officers now scrutinize social media and other digital activity when processing visa renewals or re-stamping.

State Department officials have indicated that embassies are prioritizing detailed case reviews over speed, causing appointment backlogs and extended processing times.

For more background on the major policy changes in 2025, take a look at our explainer covering Trump's impact on the travel industry.

Photo by Austin on Unsplash