Every year, thousands of foreign workers travel to the United States to fill temporary, non-agricultural jobs through the USA H-2B visa program. From landscaping and hospitality to construction and tourism services, the H-2B visa is one of the most accessible legal pathways for non-residents seeking seasonal jobs in the USA.

If you’re looking for a legal way to work in the USA in 2025, this post explains everything you need to know about the H-2B visa, who qualifies, and how to apply step by step.

What is the USA H-2B Visa?

The USA H-2B visa is a temporary, non-immigrant work visa that allows employers in the United States to hire foreign workers for seasonal, peak-load, intermittent, or one-time need positions in non-agricultural sectors.

Common industries that hire H-2B workers include:

• Hospitality (hotels, resorts, restaurants)
• Tourism and theme parks
• Landscaping and groundskeeping
• Construction labor
• Seafood processing
• Amusement and recreation services
• Cleaning and janitorial services

The visa is typically valid for up to 9 months, but can be extended in some cases.

Why Choose the H-2B Visa?

• ✅ Legal work authorization in the USA
• ✅ No university degree required
• ✅ Available for low and semi-skilled workers
• ✅ Opportunities across various industries
• ✅ Potential to return for future seasons
• ✅ Earn competitive wages in the United States

Who is Eligible for the USA H-2B Visa?

To qualify for an H-2B visa, you must:

• Be a citizen of an eligible country (check the latest H-2B eligible country list)
• Have a valid job offer from a U.S. employer with a temporary labor certification
• Be physically capable of performing the job duties
• Intend to return to your home country after the job ends

Example of eligible countries include:

• Mexico
• Jamaica
• South Africa
• Philippines
• Guatemala
• Honduras
• Nigeria (only if listed for the year)
• Many others (check the updated list annually)

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for the USA H-2B Visa in 2025

Step 1: Secure a Job Offer from a U.S. Employer

You cannot apply on your own.
Your U.S. employer must:

• Prove there are no enough American workers for the job
• Obtain temporary labor certification from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL)

You can find opportunities through:

• Licensed overseas recruitment agencies
• U.S. employers that hire seasonal workers regularly
• Job portals advertising H-2B positions

Step 2: Employer Files Form I-129

After securing labor certification, your employer files Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Once approved, you’ll receive a petition approval notice (Form I-797).

Step 3: Apply for the H-2B Visa at the U.S. Embassy

With your approved petition, you’ll:

• Complete the DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application
• Pay the visa application fee (usually $190)
• Schedule a visa interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate

Step 4: Attend Your Visa Interview

Bring the following to your interview:

• Valid passport
• DS-160 confirmation page
• Visa fee payment receipt
• Approved Form I-797 notice
• Job offer letter
• Any supporting documents

You may be asked about:

• Your job duties
• Your employer
• Your plans to return home after the job ends

Step 5: Receive Your H-2B Visa and Travel to the USA

If approved, your visa will be stamped in your passport.
You can travel to the USA and begin work for your sponsoring employer.

Remember:

• You can only work for the employer that sponsored you
• You must leave the USA when your visa expires, unless you extend legally

Can I Extend or Return with the H-2B Visa?

• You may extend for up to 3 years, but must leave after that period before reapplying.
• Many employers invite workers back for new seasons.
• You can apply again in future years if your employer sponsors you.

Key Considerations

• H-2B visas have a yearly cap (currently 66,000 per year).
• Apply early, as spots fill up quickly.
• Not all recruitment agencies are legitimate — check for licensed or approved agents.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I change employers on an H-2B visa?
👉 Only if your new employer files a new petition and it is approved.

Q: Can I bring my family?
👉 Yes, spouses and children can apply for H-4 visas, but they cannot work on H-4 status.

Q: Do I need to pay the employer?
👉 No. U.S. law prohibits employers from charging recruitment fees. However, you are responsible for visa and travel costs unless your employer covers them.

Q: How long can I stay on an H-2B visa?
👉 Up to 9 months, with possible extensions.

Q: Is the H-2B visa renewable?
👉 Yes, up to a maximum stay of 3 years, after which you must leave and apply again later.

Key Takeaways

• The USA H-2B Visa offers a legal way for non-residents to work in seasonal jobs in the USA.
• No degree is required — just a valid job offer and approved petition.
• Jobs range from hospitality and landscaping to construction and tourism services.
• The process involves securing a job, petition approval, and a U.S. embassy visa interview.
• You can work legally, earn U.S. wages, and return for future seasons if sponsored again.

Helpful Links

• USCIS H-2B Visa Overview
• U.S. Department of Labor – H-2B Program
• U.S. Embassy Visa Information

Disclaimer

This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always confirm current requirements with official U.S. government sources or licensed immigration professionals. See our Privacy Policy, Disclaimer, and Terms of Use for more information.

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Pro Tip: For the best visa sponsorship jobs and insurance options for immigrants, explore our Visa Sponsorship section and Insurance category.

Written by our team of international travel and visa experts based in Canada. Read more helpful guides like this here.