Microsoft flags travel risks for employees due to H-1B and H-4 visa rescheduling

Microsoft has alerted employees about significant delays in H-1B and H-4 visa appointments at U.S. consulates, particularly in Chennai and Hyderabad.

The advisory cites new social media screening measures and procedural constraints, calling the situation “rapidly developing.” Rescheduled appointments extend as far as June 2026, and emergency slots are expected to be unlikely.

Jack Chen, Microsoft’s associate general counsel for immigration, shared preliminary guidance for employees in and outside the U.S., urging those whose visas are expiring to return before expiry and advising travellers to reconsider plans if new appointments are delayed.

Employees are encouraged to report their visa appointment status through a Microsoft survey, which tracks rescheduling trends and provides a platform for updates if notices are received after initial reporting. Similar advisories have been issued by other tech giants, including Apple and Google.

The delays stem from operational constraints due to the U.S. online presence review, effective December 15, which has reduced daily processing capacity. Microsoft emphasises that while the review currently targets H-1B/H-4, F, J, and M visas, secondary impacts on other categories may emerge.

Employees facing rescheduling are advised to coordinate with Microsoft Global Mobility Payroll and Tax Compliance Policy to understand limitations on work during visa delays. The company aims to provide guidance based on survey data and ongoing updates by the end of the week.