Google, a major player in the tech industry, is facing scrutiny over its recent workforce management strategies. Although many professionals aspire to work for the Mountain View company, recent changes — particularly around remote work policies — have left employees feeling unsettled. A new report indicates that Google is now requiring some employees previously approved for remote work to transition to a hybrid model, necessitating in-office attendance.

The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 significantly altered work dynamics, forcing many companies to adopt remote work to ensure safety amid widespread contagion risks. The tech sector, where remote work is often feasible, quickly adapted to this new reality. Employees enjoyed greater flexibility, with many choosing to relocate to areas distant from their workplaces.

However, it appears that companies, including Google, are now retracting some of these pandemic-era accommodations, particularly for those who had chosen full remote work. According to reports from CNBC, several Google employees are being compelled to return to the office at least three days a week; those who do not comply risk losing their jobs. Notifications regarding this requirement have been sent out in various company divisions.

This situation follows previous layoffs at Google, where around 12,000 positions were eliminated in the cloud division just last year. Earlier this year, voluntary buyouts were also offered to full-time U.S. employees. Though not positioned as a blanket policy, a Google spokesperson clarified that these requirements apply to specific teams.

For instance, Google Technical Services and People Operations staff living within 50 miles of an office must adhere to the three-day office attendance rule or face voluntary exit packages. Remote employees living farther away may retain their contracts but will miss out on promotional opportunities if they remain fully remote.