December 19, 2025 – Mountain View, California – Alphabet Inc. (Google) has advised employees on U.S. visas to avoid international travel due to significant delays at U.S. embassies and consulates, according to a report by Business Insider. The guidance comes via an internal memo from BAL Immigration Law, Google’s outside counsel, warning that visa processing delays could lead to extended stays outside the United States.

Visa Processing Delays Affect H-1B Holders

The memo specifically targeted employees who require a visa stamp to re-enter the U.S., citing appointment delays of up to 12 months at certain embassies and consulates. Employees traveling internationally risk being unable to return to the United States on schedule, which could impact work responsibilities and project timelines.

The warning follows broader scrutiny of the H-1B visa program, widely used by U.S. tech companies to hire highly skilled workers from countries such as India and China. Earlier this month, the U.S. administration under President Donald Trump increased vetting of applicants, including social media screenings, and imposed a $100,000 fee for new H-1B applications.

Google’s Previous Guidance

This is not the first time Google has cautioned employees on visa travel. In September 2025, Alphabet advised H-1B visa holders to remain in the U.S. and avoid international travel, highlighting ongoing challenges in global visa processing and the potential risks of leaving the country.

Implications for U.S. Tech Sector

The travel advisory underscores the vulnerability of technology companies reliant on international talent, as delays in visa processing can disrupt staffing, project continuity, and global operations. Companies like Google are urging employees to plan carefully and avoid unnecessary travel until visa appointment schedules stabilize.

Google has not immediately commented on the latest advisory.