H-2B
H-2B visa: temporary non-farm work
H-2B is for temporary non-farm work: landscaping, hotels and resorts, restaurants, seafood processing, amusement parks, construction and more.
Who can apply
- No degree needed. Some jobs ask for a few months of experience.
- Since 01/17/2025 there is no country list anymore: citizens of any country may take part. Entry restrictions placed on specific countries still apply.
- The employer gets certification from the Department of Labor and then files with USCIS. You have the interview at the consulate.
Visa cap
- There are 66,000 visas a year: 33,000 for jobs starting October–March and 33,000 for April–September. Some years the government releases extra visas, often only for returning H-2B workers.
- Because the cap runs out fast, employers file months ahead. Look for jobs early.
Your rights
- The employer pays visa fees and inbound travel (reimbursed in the first workweek), and return travel if you finish the contract or are let go early.
- Three-fourths guarantee of promised hours, and pay at least the government wage for the job and area.
- No one may charge you a recruitment fee: not the employer, the agency or the recruiter in your country.
- Up to 3 years in a row. Spouse and children may come on H-4 but cannot work.
Official links
ℹ️ Immigration rules change often. Confirm on the official links or with an immigration attorney before making decisions.
Information checked on Nov 11, 2026.