US visas delayed: Google advises employees to avoid foreign travel

 

 

PP Cherian

Washington DC: In view of the severe delays faced by visa stamping at American embassies, Google has strictly advised its employees to avoid unnecessary foreign travel.

There is a situation where one has to wait up to 12 months (one year) to get appointments for visa stamping at American embassies and consulates.

The process is delayed with the introduction of a new law that closely examines the social media accounts of visa applicants (Enhanced Social Media Screening).

This crisis mainly affects H1B visa holders, their family members (O4), and students (F, J, M visas).

Google's immigration department warns that those going abroad for visa stamping may be stranded there for months without getting an appointment.

Apart from Google, companies like Apple and Microsoft have also issued similar instructions to their employees.