New Visa Screening Rules Impact Tech Companies and Employees

New visa screening rules have significantly impacted tech companies and their employees, particularly those on H-1B visas. According to Business Insider, Google and Apple have advised employees holding these visas not to travel outside the U.S. due to processing delays caused by new social media screening requirements.

These changes have resulted in visa appointment backlogs stretching up to 12 months at U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide, as reported by the Times of India. The U.S. Department of State confirmed that thorough vetting is now prioritized over reducing wait times, leading to significant delays for applicants, especially those from India, who comprise over 70% of H-1B visa holders.

Immigration attorneys have cautioned visa holders to avoid non-essential travel, as many have found themselves stranded abroad following cancelled appointments. The delays have created uncertainty for tech companies reliant on these visas, affecting their workforce and operations.