Don’t Leave US: Apple, Google Warn Indian H-1Bs

US tech giants Apple and Google have reportedly advised H-1B employees to avoid travelling abroad. The warning comes amid political uncertainty and a tougher stance on international workers. Companies fear employees may face difficulties returning to the US.

Internal memos reviewed by NPR reveal growing concern over visa delays at Indian consulates. Apple and Google are tracking repeated rescheduling of appointments due to stricter work visa vetting. Several Indian H-1B holders have seen December and January slots pushed to July through October 2026.

These delays follow new rules introduced during Donald Trump’s push on immigration. H-1B renewals now require applicants to keep social media accounts public. Interview waivers were also removed earlier, forcing all applicants to attend in person interviews in their home country.

Google’s legal team advised employees to avoid international travel due to the risk of extended stays outside the US. Fragomen, which works with Apple, issued a similar advisory. The firm warned of unpredictable and prolonged delays in visa processing.

Apple and Google together employ over 300,000 H-1B workers. A majority of them are Indians. Nearly three fourths of all H-1B holders belong to the Indian diaspora, with most employed in STEM roles across major tech firms.

As uncertainty continues, many Indian H-1B workers have cancelled family visits and personal commitments. Some are delaying weddings, emergencies and childbirth plans. Those already in India face possible job loss as renewal appointments remain months away.