Some of the US’s 2025 travel updates are influencing how international employees take off this holiday season.
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Earlier this year, the US government announced crackdowns on H1-B visas. H-1B visas are non-immigrant visas that allow qualified professionals to work in the United States. But not just any professional—one who provides a specialized type of work that’s reserved for pros at the top of their fields.
When the US announced changes to its H1-B visa setup, including a $100,000 fee for employees applying for the visa and extended background checks, some employees canceled trips out of the US. Some even got off their planes when the news hit.
They did so because they feared that they wouldn’t be allowed back into the United States on their current H1-B visas due to rule changes. And it looks like that’s still a concern this holiday season.
Tech companies recommend employees stay in the US this holiday season
Over the last two days, it looks like Google, Apple, and Microsoft have both recommended that employees working on an H1-B visa cancel any plans to leave the country. The main concern is that they might not be allowed to re-enter the United States on their current visas.
Workers entering the US on H1-B visas are subject to extensive background checks, which now include potential social media and email checks that will look back at posts and emails from the last five years. The added work for US officials has created extensive delays at many embassies.
Any employees who would require a visa stamp have been warned that they could face months-long delays waiting for approval to re-enter the country.
Business Insider reports on a memo from Google’s immigration service, BAL Immigration Law. It reads, “Please be aware that some US Embassies and Consulates are experiencing significant visa stamping appointment delays, currently reported as up to 12 months.”
Apple and Microsoft issued similar memos from their immigration partners. It looks like Apple and Google are asking employees to postpone any international travel that isn’t necessary. Meanwhile, Microsoft’s immigration team is asking employees outside the country to report their status so they can offer help and guidance on re-entry.
