Google has tightened its remote work policy. Employees residing within a 50-mile radius of a Google office are now required to work from the office three days a week; failure to comply may result in job termination.
Google has delivered another significant blow to its employees. The company is gradually phasing out its "work from home" policy. A new policy has been announced for US-based teams, mandating that employees residing within 50 miles (approximately 80 kilometers) of a company office must work from the office at least three days a week. Non-compliance could lead to job loss.
Clear Warning to Employees: Come to the Office or Leave Your Job
Google's new 'return to office' policy affects all employees previously working remotely, particularly those living near company offices. They now face a stark choice: transition to a hybrid work model by September 2025 or accept a Voluntary Exit Package (VEP).
Jen Fitzpatrick, Senior Vice President of Google's Core Systems, stated in an internal memo, "When it comes to rapid innovation, teamwork, and connection, there's no substitute for working together in person." This is the reason Google now expects employees' physical presence in the office.
Which Teams Will Be Most Affected?
This policy will most significantly impact the following Google teams:
- The Knowledge and Information division, encompassing Search, Ads, and Commerce operations.
- Core engineering teams, the backbone of the company's technological development.
- Marketing and research teams, where in-office collaboration is deemed essential.
Employees in these divisions have been instructed to either adopt the hybrid work model or voluntarily leave the company.
Voluntary Exit Program (VEP): What is This Option?
Google has launched a VEP, or Voluntary Exit Program, for its Search, Marketing, Research, and Core Engineering divisions. Employees unwilling to commit to a hybrid work schedule can depart the company with a severance package.
Nick Fox, head of Google's Knowledge and Information unit, wrote in a memo to employees, "We want every member to be fully committed to the future of their product. If you're inspired by your role and are performing well, I urge you not to choose this option (VEP)."
However, he also acknowledged that for employees who are not comfortable with this strategy or who are struggling with their performance, it could represent a respectful exit.
Google's Major Shift: Distance from Remote Work, Focus on AI and Infrastructure
Google's new strategy extends beyond a simple return-to-office mandate. The company is streamlining all operations to increase efficiency.
- In 2023, Google eliminated over 12,000 positions.
- Targeted buyout programs were launched in several departments in early 2025.
- The company is now prioritizing AI development and infrastructure investment.
- Hiring is now concentrated in departments with the greatest future needs.
The Message for Remote Workers?
This policy makes it clear that long-term remote work is not part of Google's future operational model. Over the past few years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, the work-from-home model revolutionized how work was conducted globally. However, tech companies are now returning to the office, and Google is leading the charge.
The company now aims to prioritize employees aligned with its long-term strategy, who are innovative and eager to grow within a team environment.
