Google warns some visa employees not to leave the US due to 'significant' return delays of up to a year

"The company's outside counsel BAL Immigration Law sent an email on Thursday advising staff who require a visa stamp to re-enter the US not to leave the country because visa processing was taking longer than usual, according to a copy of the memo reviewed by Business Insider. "Please be aware that some US Embassies and Consulates are experiencing significant visa stamping appointment delays, currently reported as up to 12 months," the memo read. It was recommended that employees avoid international travel as they would "risk an extended stay outside the US.""

"American consulates and embassies around the world are seeing delays with routine visa appointments following the introduction of a new social media screening requirement, which applies to H-1B visa workers and their dependents, as well as students and exchange visitors. On Friday, a spokesperson for the Department of State told Business Insider it was conducting "online presence reviews for applicants." The department said it may move appointments as resources change, with applicants able to request expedited slots on a case-by-case basis."

Google's outside counsel advised employees who need visa stamps for US re-entry to avoid international travel because visa processing times at some embassies and consulates have lengthened, reportedly up to 12 months. The delays follow a new social-media screening requirement that affects H-1B workers, their dependents, students, and exchange visitors. The State Department is conducting online presence reviews and said appointments may be moved as resources change, with expedited slots available on a case-by-case basis. Some embassies, including locations in India, Ireland, and Vietnam, have postponed routine appointments while prioritizing thorough vetting over reduced wait times.

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