Google tightens return-to-office rules, offers exit option to remote staff

Google has announced a stricter return-to-office mandate for several of its key divisions, requiring remote employees living within 50 miles of company offices to adopt a hybrid schedule of at least three in-office days per week by September, or opt for a voluntary exit package.

The policy applies to employees in the Knowledge & Information division, which includes Search, Ads, and Commerce operations, along with the Core engineering teams.

It is part of a broader strategy shift that includes voluntary exit programs (VEPs) offered to US-based staff in affected departments, such as marketing and research.

"When it comes to connection, collaboration, and moving quickly to innovate together, there's just no substitute for coming together in person," said Jen Fitzpatrick, Senior Vice President of Core Systems, in an internal memo shared with multiple outlets.

Nick Fox, who leads the Knowledge & Information group, highlighted the importance of employee engagement in the memo.

"My goal is for every single one of us here to be all-in on building the future of our products," he said.

He encouraged high performers to stay, adding, "If you're excited about your work, energized by the opportunity ahead, and performing well, I really (really!) hope you don't take this!"

For those facing challenges, Fox positioned the buyout program as a respectful exit option: "This VEP offers a supportive exit path for those of you who don't feel aligned with our strategy, don't feel energized by your work, or are having difficulty meeting the expectations of your role."

This move is the latest in Google's ongoing effort to curtail remote work flexibility. In April 2025, the company began enforcing similar return-to-office mandates across various teams, with relocation assistance offered to employees needing to move closer to Google offices.

While this policy does not apply to employees in DeepMind, Google Cloud, YouTube, or central advertising sales, YouTube has implemented its own in-office requirements for nearby remote staff.

The company continues to hire while streamlining operations, following major layoffs in 2023 that cut 12,000 jobs.

Google's focus remains fixed on advancing artificial intelligence and strengthening its technological infrastructure.