Story perspectives

Tech Giants Urge Visa Holders to Avoid Travel Amid Policy Shift

12/23/2025

Summary

Story summary

Apple Inc., Google LLC, and Microsoft Corp. advised visa-holding employees to avoid international travel amid changes in U.S. immigration policy.
Following an attack on National Guard members, the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump expanded travel bans and vetting, delaying visa appointments, some scheduled as late as summer 2026.
The H-1B visa program has faced scrutiny, with Indian nationals representing 71% of approved petitions, highlighting reliance on foreign talent.

History

Historical Context

In April 2017, President Trump signed an executive order to reform the H-1B visa program, aiming to prioritize higher-skilled applicants and curb perceived abuses. By 2018, 71% of approved H-1B petitions were for Indian nationals, highlighting the program's reliance on foreign talent. Recent advisories from major tech firms like Apple and Google reflect ongoing concerns about immigration policies affecting skilled labor availability in the U.S. technology sector.

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Story summary

Apple Inc., Google LLC, and Microsoft Corp. advised visa-holding employees to avoid international travel amid changes in U.S. immigration policy.
Following an attack on National Guard members, the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump expanded travel bans and vetting, delaying visa appointments, some scheduled as late as summer 2026.
The H-1B visa program has faced scrutiny, with Indian nationals representing 71% of approved petitions, highlighting reliance on foreign talent.

1 / 2