Immigration law firms representing the firms have attributed the delays to newly introduced social media screening requirements, raising concerns that employees travelling abroad could face prolonged delays in returning to the U.S.
Washington DC (US), December 21, 2025, BNN Web Staff: Technology giants Google and Apple have reportedly advised some of their employees in the United States who hold work and student visas to avoid international travel, as visa processing delays stretch up to a year following stricter immigration scrutiny.
According to a report by Business Insider, internal advisories issued by the companies warn that U.S. embassies and consulates are facing significant backlogs for visa stamping appointments.
Immigration law firms representing the firms have attributed the delays to newly introduced social media screening requirements, raising concerns that employees travelling abroad could face prolonged delays in returning to the U.S.
The guidance applies to holders of several visa categories, including H-1B, H-4, F, J and M visas. Google’s internal communication reportedly highlighted that some diplomatic missions currently have appointment wait times of as long as 12 months.
The development follows the Trump administration’s recent decision to tighten vetting procedures for H-1B visas, commonly used by highly skilled foreign professionals, particularly in the technology sector. The enhanced checks include closer examination of applicants’ social media activity.
The H-1B programme, which plays a crucial role in enabling U.S. tech companies to hire talent from countries such as India and China, has also come under pressure due to a steep increase in application costs. Earlier this year, the administration imposed a $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa applications.
Neither Google nor Apple has officially commented on the advisory so far.
