Meta Layoffs 2026: What H-1B Visa Employees Were Told After Job Cuts Affecting Nearly 8,000 Workers
Meta has laid off nearly 8,000 employees as part of its latest workforce reduction, with the company also announcing plans to redeploy more than 7,000 workers to artificial intelligence-focused initiatives.
Meta has laid off nearly 8,000 employees as part of its latest workforce reduction, with the company also announcing plans to redeploy more than 7,000 workers to artificial intelligence-focused initiatives.
The layoffs reportedly began in Singapore, where affected employees received notification emails at around 4 am local time. Among those impacted were workers on employer-sponsored visas, including H-1B visa holders in the United States, who face additional uncertainty after losing their jobs.
What Meta Told H-1B Visa Employees
In a memo sent to affected staff, Meta acknowledged the challenges faced by employees whose immigration status is tied to the company.
“We know this is especially difficult for those whose visa and work authorization is sponsored by Meta. The Alumni Portal has general immigration guidance to help address your immediate questions”. H-1B Visa Deadline: Indian Professionals Scramble for Jobs Amid Fresh US Tech Layoffs.
The company directed impacted workers to its Alumni Portal, where employees can access immigration-related resources and seek legal assistance.
According to the memo, the portal includes information designed to help affected workers understand their options following the layoffs.
“The guidance also contains the contact information for your assigned law firm,” the company said. “You can also open a case via the Alumni Portal if you have specific questions about your case”. Meta Layoffs Continue AI Push As Mark Zuckerberg Says Competing With AWS and Microsoft Azure Is ‘Definitely on the Table’.
Meta Provides Immigration Support Resources
Meta said the Alumni Portal serves as a central hub for immigration guidance and legal support. Employees can use the platform to connect with designated law firms and receive assistance regarding visa status, work authorization, and next steps after termination.
The move comes as visa-sponsored employees often face strict deadlines to secure a new employer or adjust their immigration status after losing their jobs.
Severance Package for Laid-Off Meta Employees
Meta also outlined the severance benefits available to eligible full-time employees affected by the layoffs.
According to the company, impacted workers will receive:
- Severance payment of 16 weeks plus two weeks for every year of completed services, minus the applicable notice period.
- Payment of COBRA health insurance premiums for employees and eligible dependents for up to 18 months.
Meta noted that employees must sign a Separation Agreement to receive severance benefits.
The company added that workers who do not receive the agreement can submit a request through the Alumni Portal for assistance.
Meta Expands AI Focus Amid Workforce Restructuring
While reducing headcount in some areas, Meta is simultaneously increasing its investment in artificial intelligence. The company plans to move more than 7,000 employees to AI-related projects as it accelerates efforts to compete in the rapidly evolving AI sector.
The latest layoffs reflect the broader trend among major technology companies seeking to streamline operations while prioritizing investments in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 29, 2026 05:26 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).