Visa processing delays have significantly impacted international travel for employees of various tech companies, including Apple. A recent memo from Fragomen, the law firm representing Apple, advised some visa holders to refrain from traveling outside the U.S. due to these unpredictable delays. The memo emphasizes the need for employees lacking a valid H-1B visa stamp to consider postponing any travel plans.
During fiscal year 2024, Apple applied for a total of 3,880 H-1B visas. The introduction of a new social media screening requirement has led to processing delays of up to 12 months. This requirement mandates H-1B applicants and their dependents to disclose all social media usernames from the past five years on the DS-160 visa application, which is necessary for new applications and renewals.
Delays are being experienced at U.S. embassies and consulates globally, including in locations such as Ireland and Vietnam. Employees are encouraged to contact Apple Immigration and Fragomen if travel cannot be delayed, to discuss potential risks associated with their international trips.