The demand for temporary workers in the United States is constantly on the rise, especially for sectors that rely on seasonal labor. For businesses that experience cyclical spikes in activity, hiring workers through employment visa programs like H-2B can be a highly efficient solution.
What Is the H-2B Program?
The H-2B non-agricultural temporary worker program was established by Congress to enable U.S. employers to bring in noncitizens to fill temporary non-agricultural roles. Employers across various industries—including construction, hospitality, landscaping, and food services—have benefited from the influx of skilled, temporary workers that this program facilitates.
How Does the H-2B Cap Work?
Under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), there is a statutory numerical limit, or “cap,” on the total number of H-2B visas issued each fiscal year. Congress has set the annual cap at 66,000, with 33,000 visas designated for the first half of the fiscal year (Oct. 1 – Mar. 31), and 33,000 for the second half (Apr. 1 – Sep. 30).
On September 18, 2024, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that the cap for the first half of Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 had been reached. This means that petitions for new workers requesting employment start dates before April 1, 2025 are no longer being accepted.
H-2B Program and Cap Allocation in 2025
Why Consider the H-2B Program?
For businesses with fluctuating labor demands, the H-2B visa program provides an essential solution. Not only does it offer a pool of qualified temporary workers, but it also allows U.S. companies to remain competitive in industries that rely heavily on seasonal and temporary labor.
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Sources:
- USCIS – H-2B Non-Agricultural Workers Program
- Department of Labor – H-2B Temporary Non-Agricultural Program