Google Tightens Return-to-Office Policy, Offers Exit Package for Remote Workers

New Delhi, 14th June 2025: Google is further cracking down on remote work, mandating that employees living within a 50-mile radius of company offices must return to on-site work at least three days a week—or risk losing their jobs. The tech giant has also introduced a voluntary exit package (VEP) for employees unwilling or unable to meet the updated hybrid work requirement.

The expanded policy affects several key teams, including the Knowledge and Information division, which oversees Search, Ads, and Commerce, as well as core engineering and research units. Affected employees must transition to the new hybrid model by September or opt for the buyout offer.

Jen Fitzpatrick, Senior Vice President of Core Systems, emphasized the importance of in-person collaboration in an internal memo. “When it comes to connection, collaboration and bringing faster innovation together, there is no substitute for working together,” she stated.

Nick Fox, head of the Knowledge and Information Group, echoed the sentiment and urged employees to stay only if they are fully committed. “My goal is for each of us to be fully engaged in building the future of our products,” he wrote. He added, “If you’re excited about your work, energized by the opportunity ahead, and performing well, I really (really!) hope you don’t take it!”

At the same time, Fox acknowledged that the new policy may not suit everyone. “This VEP offers a supportive exit path for those who are not aligned with our strategy, are not energized by their work, or are struggling to meet the expectations of their role,” he said.

This move is part of Google’s broader push to scale back remote work flexibility. In April 2025, the company had already begun enforcing similar return-to-office mandates, offering relocation assistance to employees based far from approved facilities.

The voluntary buyouts introduced in 2025 come in the wake of a significant downsizing effort, where 12,000 positions were cut in 2023. While job cuts continue in some areas, Google is simultaneously ramping up hiring in others, with a renewed focus on artificial intelligence and infrastructure investments.

The evolving workplace policy signals a shift in how Google envisions its workforce operating post-pandemic—leaner, more centralized, and physically present.