H2b visa cost for employer. For the complete announcement, please see here.

H2b visa cost for employer agricultural producers named as a joint employer, must file Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, on a prospective H-2B employers are responsible for providing, paying or reimbursing travel costs for all non-local workers hired for the contract (U. Apr 15, 2024 · What happened? The Employment and Training Administration (ETA) has updated the costs H-2A employers can charge for meals and travel-related expenses. Stay informed on critical changes Mar 24, 2025 · An H-2A employer is responsible for providing, paying in advance, or reimbursing workers for the reasonable costs of transportation, as well as daily subsistence, including lodging, between the place of employment and the place from which the worker has come to work for the employer—if the worker completes 50 percent of the job order period Get up to speed with H-2B program rules! Learn about employer obligations and regulations to ensure compliance and success. agents who meet specific regulatory requirements to bring foreign nationals to the United States to fill temporary agricultural jobs. Daily Subsistence Rate for H-2A and H-2B Workers Traveling: Minimum: $16. Sep 12, 2024 · Uncover the costs and responsibilities of sponsoring a work visa in the US, including fee breakdowns, employer obligations, and additional expenses. This program, designed to assist employers in industries with seasonal peaks, requires a thorough understanding of its multi-step application process, strict adherence to labor laws, and commitment to fair treatment of foreign workers. employer is required by law to pay for the workers inbound and outbound transportation. But sponsoring work visas is a complex and expensive process. employers can now file H-2B visa applications for temporary non-agricultural jobs starting October 1, 2025. With this program, the employer owns the H-2B visa. Visit our data disclosure page to see all the different types of jobs that fall into the category of H-2B. The H-2B visa program provides a viable solution by allowing businesses to hire foreign nationals for short-term assignments. to perform non-agricultural services or labor based on the employer's temporary need. This visa, like many other employment visas, requires employer sponsorship. minimum wage. It’s important to check the latest fee information on the USCIS website. The H-2B visa allows United States seasonal employers who anticipate a shortage of domestic workers to bring nonimmigrant foreign workers to the United States to perform non-agricultural labor or services of a temporary or seasonal nature. The new employer must submit ETA Form 750 and begin a new H-2B visa process. We offer solutions for hiring temporary workers in the US. Sep 6, 2025 · Learn how the US H2B visa works. workers are not available. The H2B Employee The H2B visa applicant does not have to meet many specific requirements in order to qualify for the visa category. workers The employer must either pay or reimburse the H-2B worker in the first workweek for any visa, visa processing, and other related fees incurred by the worker. There is a 66,000 per year limit on the number of foreign workers who may receive H2B status during each USCIS fiscal year (October through September). Mar 4, 2024 · The U. 88) Maximum: $68. § 214. 28 per day (was previously $15. Qualification criteria for H2B Visa In order to qualify the H2B The H-2B nonimmigrant program permits employers to temporarily hire nonimmigrants to perform nonagricultural labor or services in the United States. Department of State at the consulate. employers to temporarily employ foreign workers for non-agricultural jobs. To be considered a temporary need, one of the following conditions Oct 23, 2024 · The H-2B visa allows US employers to hire foreign workers for seasonal or temporary jobs in non-agricultural industries like construction, hospitality, landscaping, and more. These nonimmigrant visas are different from “green cards,” which are immigrant visas that grant permanent residence. Workers may still cover personal expenses (e. In order to acquire a H-2B visa, U. At the U. temporarily in a specialty occupation, or for a specific employer or project. 2, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Labor (DOL) jointly published a temporary final rule increasing the numerical limit (or cap) on H-2B nonimmigrant visas by up to 64,716 additional visas for all of fiscal year 2025. and requires a visa, he or she applies for an H-2B visa with the U. employer, or U. Jul 2, 2025 · On Dec. Jun 10, 2025 · In this article: H-2B Visa Qualifications H-2B Visa Document Requirements H-2B Visa Application Process H-2B Maximum Stay, Caps and Extensions H-2B Visa Costs Work with ILOLA for H-2B Visas H-2B Visa Qualifications: Who is Eligible in 2025? The H-2B visa is designed for U. The H-2B program, also known as a guest worker visa program, permits employers to hire foreign workers to come to the United States. These changes require employers to submit thorough, timely applications and provide careful documentation to access limited, highly demanded visa slots. consulate, you will need to pay a visa application fee. Jan 16, 2025 · DHS will modernize H-2A and H-2B visa programs from January 2025 to enhance worker protections and program integrity. Must receive guaranteed job offer by employer for temporary work prior to U. Apr 10, 2022 · Comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about the H-2B visa for temporary non-agricultural workers in the USA. employer must file an approved petition with the U. The H-2B program requires the employer to attest to the Department of Labor that it will A: The H-2B visa costs include a filing fee paid by the employer for the I-129 Petition of Nonimmigrant Worker. H-2B’s require considerable investment as the procedure to obtaining these visas can involve as many as five different state and federal governmental […] The H2B visa cost ranges from $100 to $500, incurred in applying for a non-native temporary visa for foreign residents seeking employment in the U. In this article, we discuss the H2B visa, how to apply for it, the essential documents that must be provided by the employer and the worker, and other details. These are common H-2B visa employer questions. These employers depend on seasonal foreign labor. But an employer need not pay passport or other charges primarily for the benefit of the worker. For the latest amount, see the Fees for Visa Services page of the State Department website. All fees are paid by the employer, including the workers visa voucher and airfare. employers to address temporary shortages in their workforce by engaging foreign nationals for non-agricultural positions. Has contractually forbidden any foreign labor contractor or recruiter whom the employer engages in international recruitment of H-2B workers to seek or receive payments from prospective employees except as provided at 8 C. For FY 2025, key updates include increased supplemental allocations, a 60-day grace period, and improved portability for workers. The H-2B program provides a crucial pathway for employers to secure temporary non-agricultural workers. S. Forms I-129 and I-797 to show USCIS approval Proof of paid visa application fee of $205. The costs associated with applying for an H-2B visa include filing fees for Form I-129, visa application fees if processed through a consulate, and possibly other expenses such as Premium Processing fees and attorney fees. No direct permanent residency path exists. Jun 5, 2024 · Employers seeking to fill temporary non-agricultural positions with foreign workers face a rigorous process to ensure compliance with the H-2B visa program. ⭐ By experts. It also reminds employers of their duty to cover specific commuting costs for H-2A and H-2B workers. You are also responsible for providing your H-2B workers with transportation to and from the United States, housing, and food. This list of agents may be provided to employers who would like to Oct 30, 2025 · I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker ALERT: On Sept. It is most commonly used by employers to fill temporary or seasonal jobs in the hospitality, construction, landscaping, and food service industries. By understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and requirements, both employers and workers can ensure a smooth experience in navigating this visa pathway. The Department of Labor prohibits passing on fees associated with the H-2B applications, such as application costs, attorney fees, recruitment fees, visa fees or other related fees to the H-2B Supporting Documents for a H2 Visa Application Temporary seasonal workers need the following documents to apply for a visa: Valid passport. work visa varies depending on the type of visa and the applicant’s nationality. Jan 13, 2025 · Prohibition of Fees: The Rule reinforces the ban on charging certain fees to H-2 workers and introduces penalties for employers who violate this provision. Apr 16, 2025 · Comprehensive guide for employers on the H-2B visa cap increase in 2025, detailing allocations and filing procedures for seasonal workers. These new fees have gone into effect on April 1st, 2024. Applicants can work temporary jobs in agriculture, construction, forestry, and many other kinds of industries. What is the H-2B visa? The H-2B visa is a type of nonimmigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to temporarily come into the United States for a specific purpose. USCIS has issued a final rule as of January 31st regarding fee increases to H-2A, H-2B, and immigrant visa applications. In this blog post, we'll outline the key guidelines from the Department of Labor ‍ Department of Labor's H-2B Program Requirements The Department of Labor Appropriations Act, 2016, Division H, Title I of Jul 25, 2018 · The visa is not transferable from one employer to another. Basic Requirements: For seasonal or temporary and non-agricultural skilled and unskilled workers, the H-2B visa/status is available. In this article we’ll learn about the process and the required supporting documentation for employers The cost of an H2B visa application includes several fees, including the filing fee, petition fee, and other applicable fees. Online Form DS-160 and the receipt. What if an employer engages a third party to recruit H-2B workers? Sep 4, 2023 · US Employer H-2B visa guide for temporary nonagricultural workers. Visa Information and Appointment Services website and pay the H2A or H2B visa fee which is $205. Our expert lawyers are here to help The H2B program is for US employers and agencies that allow them to hire foreign nationals in the United States for a temporary non-agricultural jobs. Key reforms include prohibiting worker fees, whistleblower protections, grace periods, portability for jobs, and pathways to residency. Employers cannot provide potential H-2B workers with more favorable treatment with regard to such interviews. If the foreign worker is outside the U. Sep 10, 2025 · The H2B visa is a non-immigrant visa designed for temporary foreign workers in non-agricultural sectors. 2 (h) (5) (xi) (A) or as reimbursement for costs that are the responsibility of the worker, such as government Apr 9, 2023 · 5. As of March 2021, the total cost is estimated to be around $900-$1000. Travel costs include inbound and outbound transportation, meals and any overnight lodging while in transit. There is a statutory numerical limit, or “cap,” on the total number of . 2. employers or U. The H2B Visa requires that US employers or agents requires meet specific regulatory needs and file the Form I-129 for non-immigration workers on the worker’s behalf. Compliance inspections and simplified processes aim to deter abuse while ensuring benefits for workers and employers. The new employer is required to file a Form I-129, which is a Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker at the USCIS Regional Service Center. and perform temporary nonagricultural work, which may be one-time, seasonal, peak load or intermittent. Feb 16, 2024 · USCIS will be increasing the filing fees for H-2 petitions filed on or after February 26, 2024, as follows: H-2B I-907 Premium Processing Fee Filing fee increases from $1,500 to $1,685 for all H-2B I-129 petitions filed with Premium Processing postmarked on or after February 26, 2024. Covers eligibility, application process, employer duties, annual caps, extensions, costs, and compliance. Thisprogram has certain requirements put in place for both the employers and workers related to wages, transportation, food, and housing. See full list on alllaw. After receiving an approved TLC, the employer files an I-129 petition with USCIS (multiple workers may be included on a single petition). and foreign). Jul 23, 2024 · The H-2B visa program has slowly entered the menu of work visa options when sponsoring foreign national employees. At Visa Beyond, we guide both employers and applicants through every stage of Farmer Law helps employers who petition for temporary workers to supplement their workforce. S employers must complete the following three steps. General Information on the H-2 Visas H-2A Seasonal Agricultural Workers – The H-2A visa allows U. The H-2B visa can be a great opportunity to fill a shortage of non-agricultural workers when the need is for season, peak load, intermittent work or a one-time need. S employer must offer a full-time job position that is temporary. The maximum time you can stay in the United States on an H-2B visa is three years. They are now grappling with rising operational costs, service cutbacks, and significant financial restructuring. employers who need to hire foreign nationals for temporary, non-agricultural jobs that cannot be filled by U. S. Our Jul 16, 2024 · The H-2B visa is designed for foreign workers to fill temporary seasonal jobs in the US. Your employer may be required to reimburse your inbound travel and visa costs in the first workweek if your wages minus your expenses are less than the U. To obtain this status, the petitioning employer must intend to employ the worker only temporarily and, furthermore, must be capable of demonstrating the temporary need of the applicant’s skills. The H-2B visa classification is designed for non-agricultural temporary immigrant workers who want to work in the U. Here's what employers need to know. The H2B visa allows employers to hire workers from abroad to fill temporary job openings when U. businesses can find the needed The H-2B temporary non-agricultural program permits U. Understanding these fees and their purpose is essential for both employers and prospective applicants. This visa allows U. Mandatory Denial Grounds: USCIS is authorized to deny H-2 petitions from employers found to have committed specific labor violations or misused the H-2 programs. For a detailed explanation of the program and On January 30, 2024, a final rule was published to adjust certain immigration and naturalization benefit request fees for the first time since 2016. Employers that wish to require interviews must conduct those interviews by phone or provide a procedure for the interviews to be conducted in the location where the worker is being recruited so that the worker incurs little or no cost. Unlike the H-2A visa (focused on agricultural work), the H-2B covers various seasonal H-2B workers must be provided or reimbursed for all visa, border-crossing, and visa-related fees in the first workweek of employment Upon completion of the job order or if dismissed early for any reason, to be provided or paid for return transportation and subsistence All employer-provided transportation must meet applicable safety standards What is an H-2B visa? The H-2B program allows the employment of foreign workers by U. The employment must be of a temporary nature for a limited period of time such as a one-time occurrence, seasonal need, peakload need or intermittent need. agents who meet specific regulatory requirements to bring foreign nationals to the United States to fill temporary nonagricultural jobs. Jul 18, 2025 · The process of transferring from a J1 visa to an H2B visa involves eligibility evaluation, finding an employer sponsor, labor certification, petition filing, visa application, and potential home country return. One photograph meeting the Digital Images Jun 2, 2016 · Through the H-2B visa program, employers can temporarily bring foreign workers to the United States to perform low-wage work such as landscaping, forestry, housekeeping, and construction. As an employer, you are responsible for paying all of the costs associated with the H-2B visa process, including the temporary labor certification fee, the USCIS filing fee, and the visa application fee. There is no fee waiver for this form. arrival. 00 The H2B visa allows U. Because the visas are sponsored by employers, H-2B guestworkers cannot switch employers if they are abused, meaning these workers often toil for low wages in poor conditions. employers to bring foreign workers to the United States for temporary non-agricultural jobs. Apr 21, 2010 · U. H-2B Temporary Non-Agricultural Workers The H-2B law strictly prohibits H-2B Employers and agents, working on their behalf, from collecting any fees, or payments. The employer must meet several requirements before actually bringing non Sectors Facing the Steepest Operational Cost Increases Due to the H-2B visa Cap FY 2025 For many employers, the consequences of the H-2B visa cap FY 2025 go far beyond unfilled roles. -based employers for temporary periods. This final rule will go into […] Who pays for H-1B visa fees? How Much Can I Expect to Pay in H-2B Visa Fees and Costs? The H-2B visa costs include a filing fee paid by the employer for the I-129 Petition of Nonimmigrant Worker. economy. Worried about H2B visa requirements? Get the complete list of documents, fees, and processes to make your application hassle-free! 1. In addition, there is a processing fee for a work permit application Oct 20, 2025 · The H2B visa is one of the most vital employment-based programs in the United States, allowing employers to hire foreign nationals for temporary non-agricultural jobs. The changes balance An employer who files an application for temporary foreign labor certification pursuant to the H-2B regulations must meet many specific conditions, including those concerning recruitment, wages, transportation, tools and supplies, certification and recruitment fees, labor disputes, and other conditions. Consulate, the employee must pay a visa application fee. F. Introduction The H2B nonimmigrant visa program permits employers to hire foreign workers to come to the U. The process is complex, involves government oversight, and is subject to an annual cap, which often leaves hotels unable to meet full staffing needs. The cost of a U. Your employer must also provide transportation from your employer-provided housing to the worksite at no charge. How much does it cost an employer to sponsor a work visa? US employers will spend approximately $9,400 on average for a first-time H-1B visa application, and potentially more Oct 1, 2025 · The H-2A program allows U. May 8, 2023 · The H-2B Visa program allows employers to hire nonimmigrant, seasonal, non-agricultural foreign workers to work in the United States. Oct 22, 2024 · The cost of applying for an H2B visa can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the country of application and specific employer requirements. The three-day filing window is open from July 3 to July 5, 2025. New York’s Foreign Labor Certification Unit is not allowed to endorse any one representative over any others. Apr 3, 2025 · What Is the H-2B Visa? The H-2B visa allows U. Foreign workers must also be reimbursed for all visa costs in the first workweek. The H-2B classification is vital for industries that experience cyclical or seasonal spikes in demand and need to supplement their workforce temporarily. employers to hire nonimmigrant workers to come to the U. • Can I change employers while on an H-2B visa? Jan 18, 2025 · These include: Prohibition on Certain Fees: Employers are prohibited from requiring H-2 workers to pay for costs that they are legally responsible for, such as transportation to the worksite. 19, 2025, the President issued a Proclamation, Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers, an important initial step to reform the H-1B nonimmigrant visa program. You can find the filing fee for Form I-129 by visiting our Fee Schedule page. The program is designed to ensure that U. An H-2B visa holder can change employers or jobs but they must have the status on their H-2B visa changed. Aug 25, 2025 · Bringing employees into your business from overseas can help you to attract specialist talent, fill skills gaps, and enhance innovation to remain competitive. employer, a U. Apr 1, 2024 · Any petitioner filing Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, must pay the filing fee to the Department of Homeland Security. 1. Jan 21, 2025 · Learn about the new H-2B visa rule, including increased penalties, work flexibility, and lottery updates for fiscal year 2025. Therefore, e-JAM do not charge the candidates a recruitment fee, or any other fees associated with obtaining the H-2B Visa. g. and perform non-agricultural services or labor. How long does a temporary visa last? The employer’s need for foreign temporary workers must The applicant must: Complete Form DS-160: This is the standard nonimmigrant visa application form that allows you to enter the United States, temporarily, for pleasure or in this case, work purposes. What Are the Fees for an H-2B Visa? H-2B visa costs, including a filing fee, are paid by the employer of the foreign national worker. To find out more about the H-2B visa requirements for employers, visit our page here. Common industries that use the H2B visa program include hospitality, construction, landscaping, and tourism. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and pay a petition fee of $460 plus an additional fee of $700-$1400 depending on the type of visa. The employer must provide to workers, without charge or deposit, all tools, supplies, and equipment required to perform the duties assigned. This visa category is meticulously regulated to ensure that the employment of foreign workers under H-2B status does not undermine Learn how the H-2B program supports seasonal employers by providing access to a reliable, legal workforce during peak demand periods. S employers are eligible to acquire H-2B visas for their foreign skilled or unskilled employee(s) to come to the United States to perform temporary non-agricultural work on a one- time, seasonal, peak-load or intermittent basis. The worker must pay a visa application fee at the U. H-2B Visas are used in a wide variety of industries like Construction, Landscaping, Entertainment, Food Services, Janitorial Services, Hotels and Motels etc. Oct 1, 2025 · The H-2B program allows U. com For more on these requirements, see "Fact Sheet # 78F: Inbound and Outbound Transportation Expenses, and Visa and Other Related Fees under the H-2B Program". employers to hire foreign nationals for seasonal or temporary jobs when there is a shortage of American workers. Citizenship and Immigration Services has increased filing fees and subsistence rates for those filing for H-2B and H-2A visas. consulate. + Is the employer required to pay for visa fees? Yes. Covers seasonal, peak load and eligibility. This guide offers HR professionals, C-suite executives, and general counsel an in-depth understanding of the H-2B visa, including its benefits Hire skilled seasonal workers for non-agricultural jobs with our H-2B visa program. This visa is a kind of temporary work permit for professionals and non-professionals and is divided into several general categories, H1B1, H1B, H1C, H2A, H2B, H3, and H4. Unlike other visa categories, the H-2B process entails a range of costs, from filing fees to administrative charges, each varying based on specific circumstances. H-2B H-2B Visa & Process Given the current unemployment rates, many US businesses are in desperate need of foreign workers to satisfy employment needs. Here's a complete breakdown of deadlines, application rules, and visa caps for the FY 2026 season. If H-2B visa holder wants to work for new employer in similar position, the H-2B visa holder would need a new H-2B visa. On March 24, 2025, the Department of Labor (DOL) released an update that affects H-2A and H-2B employers. Oct 13, 2021 · The H-2B temporary non-agricultural worker visa programs has traditionally been the “go to” visa option for employers seeking to hire foreign nationals coming to the United States to fill non-professional or non-degreed occupations. The agents/attorneys listed are those that New York’s H-2B employers currently hire to complete H-2B related paperwork, recruit workers from foreign countries, and provide general assistance in the H-2B process. government to foreign nationals who wish to work in the U. For the complete announcement, please see here. Effective March 24, 2025, employers must offer the following daily subsistence and meal changes when applicable: 1. Similarly, an H-2B employer is responsible for providing, paying in advance, or reimbursing a worker for the reasonable costs of transportation and daily subsistence between the place of employment and the place from which the worker has come to work for the employer—if the worker completes 50 percent of the job order period—and upon the May 10, 2025 · The H-2B Visa enables U. , passport renewals), and reimbursements are permitted where legally appropriate. Understanding the intricate recruiting requirements is essential for a smooth process. What are the details? The Employment and Training Administration (ETA) published an annual update to allow charges for temporary workers Oct 16, 2025 · Learn ALL about H-1B filing fees in our 2025 Guide on H-1B extension fees, transfer costs, application, amendment & premium processing fees. employers to bring foreign nationals to the United States to fill temporary agricultural jobs, for which U. The H-2B visa allows U. másH2B provides detailed travel reimbursement guidance. Jan 3, 2025 · Per the rule, employers must pay for transportation and visa expenses of H2B employees and shifting these costs to the employees would effectively bring them below the minimum wage in their first week of employment. First, the US employer must pay a petition filing fee that typically ranges between $460 and $1,500, depending on the type of petition and additional services requested. Jul 18, 2025 · Effective April 1, 2024, USCIS hikes H-1B filing fee to $780, H-1B1 to $780, and H-2B to $1,080 from current $460, impacting visa applicants. Looking for guidance on how to apply for H-2B visa? Read our comprehensive guide tailored for Filipinos and secure your spot today! What is an H2B Visa? The H-2B visa constitutes a pivotal component of the United States' nonimmigrant visa framework, designed to enable U. WHD Wage and Hour Division Administered Immigration Programs H-2B Program H-2B Fact Sheet Numerical Index In today’s dynamic labor market, U. The fees for visa services vary. Do employers have to pay for H-2B visa Provide Copy of Notice of Approval of H-2B Petition from the employer; the employer petition must be approved before foreign national can be considered for an H-2B visa. The U. Apr 21, 2025 · The H-2B visa program allows US hotels to address seasonal labor shortages by hiring foreign workers for temporary non-agricultural jobs. employers often face challenges in meeting temporary, non-agricultural labor needs. For the H2B visa: Form DS-156 and Form DS-157 (if male between 16 and 45 years old). These expenses include, but are not limited to: the employer’s agent or attorney fees; application and petition fees; and recruitment costs. agent as described in the regulations, must file Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, on a prospective worker’s behalf. What is an H2B Visa? An H2B visa is a non-immigrant visa issued by the U. From hospitality and landscaping to construction and entertainment, the H2B visa bridges the gap between seasonal demand and workforce availability. This visa is typically used for seasonal, peak load, or intermittent labor needs in industries such as hospitality, construction, landscaping, or seafood processing. Create a profile on the Official U. Generally, a U. Current regulations cap the amount of H-2B workers to 66,000 per year. Mar 24, 2025 · The Employment and Training Administration (ETA) of the Department of Labor (DOL) is issuing this notice to announce the annual updates to allowable monetary charges employers of H-2A workers, in occupations other than herding or production of livestock on the range, may charge workers when the The H-2B temporary work visa program allows employers to bring foreign workers to the United States for seasonal, non-farming jobs. A U. The employer may not require workers to pay, either directly or indirectly, for any employer-related costs to obtain the H-2B certified job order, including, but not limited to the employer’s attorney or agent fees, the application fees, visa fees, transportation costs or other recruitment costs. agent as described in the regulations, or an association of U. Sep 10, 2025 · The H2B visa offers a valuable opportunity for temporary non-agricultural workers to contribute to the U. employers to hire foreign guest workers to fill temporary non-agricultural jobs, if the employer cannot find suitable labor domestically. To apply for the H2B Visa Program as an employer or to get eligibility advice for your business, contact us today. Speak to an H-2B visa lawyer. employers to hire foreign nationals for work in the United States for temporary non-agricultural work. The employer and its agents, attorneys, and employees are prohibited from seeking or receiving payment from the workers for any of the expenses related to obtaining the employment certification. The process for obtaining H2B Jul 3, 2025 · U. R. Who is eligible for H2B Visa? Any US employer that has a one-time, seasonal, peakload or intermittent need for workers and otherwise meets the H-2B visa requirements is eligible for the H2B visa. The H-2B temporary non-agricultural program permits employers who meet the program requirements to hire nonimmigrant workers to temporarily come to the U. xvl yfoivs ats zdn ndwgci vtt acdgoe vvkwq xmoma yidg uqk dgjf qsffs obybdwa iyt