Released by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Labor (DOL), November 27, 2024
An additional 64,716 H-2B temporary nonagricultural worker visas were announced for fiscal year 2025. These visas support U.S. employers in industries like hospitality, landscaping, and seafood processing, who face challenges finding qualified U.S. workers. Of the total visas, 44,700 are allocated to returning workers from FY 2022-2024, while 20,000 are reserved for nationals of seven specific countries, including Colombia, Haiti, and Honduras.
The visas are divided into four allocation periods:
1. First Half FY 2025 (Oct. 1, 2024–Mar. 31, 2025): 20,716 visas for returning workers.
2. Early Second Half FY 2025 (Apr. 1–May 14, 2025): 19,000 visas for returning workers.
3. Late Second Half FY 2025 (May 15–Sept. 30, 2025): 5,000 visas for returning workers.
4. Entire FY 2025: 20,000 visas for nationals of designated countries.
Employers must demonstrate that hiring H-2B workers is necessary to avoid irreparable harm and show there are no qualified U.S. workers available. Protections against exploitation are emphasized, including scrutiny of employers with past labor law violations. A proposed rule aims to modernize and improve the H-2B program, enhancing flexibility and worker protections.
