The H-2B visa is a temporary US work visa for foreign nationals hired for non-agricultural jobs such as hospitality, tourism, construction, landscaping, and seasonal services. It allows US employers to fill temporary labor shortages when qualified US workers are unavailable. The visa is employer-sponsored and usually granted for seasonal, peak-load, intermittent, or one-time work needs. H-2B workers can stay temporarily in the US, and in some cases, extensions may be available up to a maximum permitted period.
Foreign workers with a valid temporary US job offer
Applicants for non-agricultural seasonal or temporary work
Workers sponsored by a USCIS-approved US employer
Individuals whose employer proves shortage of US workers
Applicants meeting health, background, and visa requirements
Nationals from countries eligible for the H-2B program
Secure a temporary non-agricultural job offer from a US employer willing to sponsor your H-2B visa.
The employer applies for Temporary Labor Certification from the US Department of Labor to prove a shortage of US workers.
After labor approval, the employer files Form I-129 with USCIS for worker authorization.
USCIS reviews the petition and issues Form I-797 approval notice if approved.
The applicant fills out the online DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application form.
Pay the visa fee and schedule an interview appointment at the US Embassy or Consulate.
Attend the interview with passport, job offer, approval notice, and supporting documents.
Once approved, receive the H-2B visa stamp and travel to the US for temporary employment.
Valid passport
DS-160 confirmation page
Visa interview appointment letter
Approved Form I-129 copy
Form I-797 approval notice
Temporary job offer letter
Labor Certification approval copy
Passport-size photographs
Proof of work experience or skills
Visa fee payment receipt
Note : Additional documents may be requested based on profile assessment
The H-2B visa process usually takes around 2–6 months, depending on labor certification, USCIS petition processing, and embassy appointment availability. Premium Processing for Form I-129 may reduce USCIS processing time to about 15 business days.
| Applicant Type | Fees |
|---|---|
DS-160 Visa Application Fee |
approximately $205 |
Form I-129 Filing Fee |
paid by employer (varies by category) |
Premium Processing Fee (optional) |
approximately $2,805 |
Visa issuance/reciprocity fee |
country-specific if applicable |
SEVIS fee |
not required for H-2B visa |
Additional costs |
medical exam, travel, and document preparation charges |
Note : Fees are subject to change as per government updates.
The H-2B visa allows US employers to hire foreign workers for temporary non-agricultural jobs when there are not enough available US workers.
