H-2B temporary non-agricultural worker
Permits US employers to hire foreign workers for temporary non-agricultural services or labor (hospitality, construction, landscaping, tourism) when local workers are unavailable.
Who this pathway suits
Seasonal hospitality, resort, construction, and landscaping workers.
Eligibility at a glance
- Employer establishes temporary need (one-time occurrence, seasonal need, peak-load need, or intermittent need)
- DOL temporary labor certification approved
- Subject to statutory annual cap of 66,000 (plus supplemental allocations)
How the process works
- Employer submits prevailing wage and labor certification to DOL
- File Form I-129 with USCIS
- Consular visa stamping
Documents you will typically need
- DOL certified TLC, I-129 approval notice, employment contract
What to keep in mind
Maximum stay is up to 3 years before requiring a continuous 3-month departure from the US.
Official source: USCIS — H-2B Temporary Non-Agricultural Workers. Government authorities make all final decisions; no outcome is guaranteed.
Parallel Options & Supporting Tools for H-2B temporary non-agricultural worker
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