Microsoft has issued an urgent internal advisory for its employees under H-1B and H-4 visas, asking those currently outside the United States to return by September 21, 2025, ahead of a sweeping policy change set to take effect that day.In the memo, the company also told visa holders already in the U.S. to remain there “for the foreseeable future” and avoid international travel to prevent any risk of being denied reentry under the new rules.

The move follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent proclamation that imposes a $100,000 annual fee on each H-1B visa, effective from 12:01 a.m. ET on September 21, 2025, lasting for 12 months. Employers sponsoring H-1B workers will be responsible for paying this new surcharge.Other major companies—such as JPMorgan and Amazon—have issued similar advisories to their visa-holding employees. These corporations are urging those abroad to return before the deadline and those inside the U.S. to avoid travel until further clarity is provided.

With Indians making up over 70% of H-1B visa recipients, the policy is expected to disproportionately affect Indian tech professionals. Experts say the sudden fee hike and travel warnings could create chaos and uncertainty for many foreign workers and their employers.