WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Labor (DOL) unveiled a plan Wednesday to make an additional 64,716 H-2B temporary nonagricultural worker visas available for fiscal year 2025, citing the urgent need to support U.S. industries facing labor shortages.
“These supplemental visas help U.S. employers fill critical positions, fueling our economy and reducing irregular migration,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas.
“They also provide a lawful pathway for noncitizens ready to work.”
The H-2B visas will be allocated in stages throughout FY 2025, with 44,700 reserved for returning workers who held H-2B status between 2022 and 2024. The remaining 20,000 visas are designated for nationals from specific countries, including Colombia, El Salvador, Haiti, and Honduras.
Visa Allocations Detailed
First Half of FY 2025 (Oct. 1 – March 31): 20,716 visas for returning workers, with petitions accepted immediately.
Early Second Half (April 1 – May 14): 19,000 visas for returning workers, with start dates between April 1 and May 14.
Late Second Half (May 15 – Sept. 30): 5,000 visas for returning workers.
Full-Year Allocation: 20,000 visas reserved for select nationalities, immediately available.
Employers must demonstrate that the absence of H-2B workers would cause “irreparable harm” and certify that no qualified U.S. workers are available. Industries relying on these visas include hospitality, landscaping, seafood processing, and tourism.
The rule includes measures to protect H-2B workers from exploitation. DHS plans to closely scrutinize employers with prior labor law violations and is working to modernize the program to enhance flexibility and safeguard workers.
This decision builds on previous H-2B expansions and reflects continued efforts to address temporary labor needs while ensuring fair treatment for both foreign and domestic workers.
