Tech Companies Advise H-1B Visa Holders to Limit international Travel Amid New Restrictions
Recent policy changes by the Trump management have prompted several major technology companies to advise their employees holding H-1B visas to exercise caution with international travel, adn in some cases, to remain in the United States. These advisories follow an proclamation of increased scrutiny and fees associated with H-1B visa applications, representing the administration’s moast notable effort yet to restrict employment-based legal immigration.
According to sources, a law firm representing multiple companies sent a memo urging H-1B visa holders to avoid international travel until further guidance is provided. Specifically,Goldman Sachs communicated to employees with H-1B visas to be cautious when traveling internationally,based on advice from immigration services firm Fragomen. Microsoft has reportedly advised H-1B visa holders to remain in the U.S.,and those currently abroad to return,warning that international travel could jeopardize their immigration status.
the new fee structure represents a significant escalation in the administration’s broader crackdown on both legal and illegal immigration, initiated since taking office in January. While previous actions targeted various aspects of immigration, this announcement focuses specifically on employment visas.
Data indicates that Amazon employed the largest number of H-1B holders, exceeding 14,000 as of the end of June. Other top recipients include Microsoft, Meta, Apple, and Google, each holding over 4,000 H-1B visas among the top 10 recipients for the fiscal year 2025.
The White House defended the changes, with spokeswoman Taylor rogers stating the action “puts American workers frist” by discouraging companies from exploiting the system and possibly suppressing wages. Rogers also asserted the policy provides clarity for businesses seeking to legitimately bring high-skilled workers to the U.S.
The announcement has also triggered responses from foreign governments. India’s Ministry of External affairs stated it is assessing the implications of the visa restrictions, emphasizing the shared interest of both Indian and U.S. industries in maintaining innovation competitiveness. The Ministry also expressed concern over the potential disruption to families. South korea’s foreign ministry similarly announced it is evaluating the impact on Korean firms and skilled workers.
CNBC has reached out to the public companies listed among the top 10 H-1B recipients for comment, and is awaiting a response from the White House.
