Xin Lang Cai Jing·2025-12-21 13:35Core Viewpoint - The U.S. government has implemented new social media review requirements for certain visa applicants, significantly delaying the visa processing times at U.S. embassies and consulates abroad, with some appointments being pushed back to a year later. Companies like Google and Apple have advised their foreign employees on work visas to avoid international travel to prevent prolonged stays outside the U.S. [1][3] Group 1: Visa Processing Delays - The new social media review requirements have extended the processing time for visa applications, particularly affecting H-1B, H-4, F, J, and M visa types [5] - The U.S. Department of State announced that the social media review scope has expanded to include all H-1B visa applicants and their families, requiring them to make their social media profiles public for review [3][5] - The delays have resulted in a significant reduction in daily visa appointment slots at U.S. embassies and consulates [3] Group 2: Company Responses - Google’s immigration law firm has sent a memo advising employees needing visa stamping to avoid international travel due to potential long delays in re-entry [1][5] - Apple’s legal representatives have similarly advised employees without valid H-1B visa stamps to refrain from traveling abroad [3] - Both companies are responding to the increased challenges posed by the new visa processing requirements, reflecting concerns over employee mobility and operational continuity [1][3]