The H-2B Visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows U.S. employers to bring foreign nationals to the United States to fill temporary nonagricultural jobs. The H-2B Visa program is designed to help U.S. employers who are unable to find enough domestic workers to fill their nonagricultural labor needs.
To qualify for an H-2B Visa, the foreign worker must be a citizen of a country that has an agreement with the United States on the H-2B Visa program. The foreign worker must also have a job offer from a U.S. employer that has been approved by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL).
The H-2B Visa program has a number of requirements for both employers and foreign workers. Employers must pay H-2B workers the prevailing wage for nonagricultural workers in the area where they will be working. Employers may also provide H-2B workers with housing and transportation.
Foreign workers who come to the United States on H-2B Visas are typically allowed to stay in the United States for up to one year. However, they may be able to extend their stay for up to two additional years if they can show that they are still needed by their employer and that there are no domestic workers available to fill the job.
Here are some additional things to know about the H-2B Visa program:
H-2B Visas are only available for temporary nonagricultural jobs.
H-2B workers cannot apply for a green card or other permanent residency status while they are on an H-2B Visa.
H-2B workers must return to their home country for at least three months before they can apply for another H-2B Visa.
Here are some examples of temporary nonagricultural jobs that H-2B workers may fill:
Landscaping
Construction
Hospitality
Food service
Retail
Forestry
Fishing
The H-2B Visa program is an important part of the U.S. economy, as it helps U.S. employers to fill their labor needs and to continue to operate their businesses.
The U.S. immigration system can be complex, and it is important to consult with an experienced immigration attorney to discuss your eligibility and options.