H2b visa processing time. Visa holders and employers must track time in the U.

H2b visa processing time In carrying out its responsibility for the processing of prevailing wage, labor certification, and labor attestation applications, the Office of Foreign Labor Certification (OFLC) generates an extensive amount of program data that is useful to a wide range of external stakeholders, including Congress, researchers, media organizations, industry associations, worker advocacy organizations, and VisaGrader. The employer receives approval of a temporary labor certification (TLC) from the US Department of Labor (DOL). Premium processing is available for the I-129 petition, reducing wait times. A U. For a detailed explanation of the program and Learn about the requirements, costs, processing times, visa extension, and application process of the H2B Visa for Temporary Workers. Current regulations cap the amount of H-2B workers to 66,000 per year. Apr 10, 2022 · Comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about the H-2B visa for temporary non-agricultural workers in the USA. The Department of Labor Announces that the Office of Foreign Labor Certification has Resumed Application Processing The Department of Labor has resumed processing of employer requests for prevailing wages and labor certification determinations for temporary and permanent employment in the United States. The information is structured to provide clarity on processing statuses, average times, and pending applications. Apr 10, 2024 · The application process includes obtaining a labor certification, filing Form I-129, and applying for the visa at the U. Track, Analyze, and Share Visa & Immigration Data Trackers, appointment wait times, appointment availability and approval rates for various immigrant and non-immigrant visas based on millions of data points. Embassy or Consulate in their home country, following which they may seek admission to the United States in H-2B status. Can I use both Premium Processing and Priority Dates to expedite my visa application process? No, you can only use one of these options at a time. 3 days ago · El h2b processing time de la visa H-2B puede ser un verdadero desafío. Stay informed on critical changes Oct 30, 2025 · Petitioners use this form to file on behalf of a nonimmigrant worker to come to the United States temporarily to perform services or labor, or to receive training, as an H-1B, H-2A, H-2B, H-3, L-1, O-1, O-2, P-1, P-1S, P-2, P-2S, P-3, P-3S, Q-1 or R-1 nonimmigrant worker. S The H2B visa cost ranges from $100 to $500, incurred in applying for a non-native temporary visa for foreign residents seeking employment in the U. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the This post provides an overview of the steps in the H2b Visa process and the hurdles that you will have to clear before you can obtain it for an employee. This window applies to applications with work start dates of April 1, 2025, or later. Embassy and Consulates try to keep the visa issuance wait times as short as possible. We are in the process of adjusting all processing times for service center-related forms to now list “Service Center Operations (SCOPS). Discover the advantages of a visa transfer. Consulate abroad ↓ The worker (s) will apply for their H-2B visa at the U. VisaGrader. Visa Appointment Service website to passport delivery with approved visa): For first-time H-2A or H-2B applicants to be approximately 2 days. This time frame includes the submission of the Feb 3, 2025 · The Department of Labor reported H-2B visa processing times as of January 30, 2025. Our expert lawyers are here to help Jul 18, 2025 · The process of transferring from a J1 visa to an H2B visa involves eligibility evaluation, finding an employer sponsor, labor certification, petition filing, visa application, and potential home country return. Jul 18, 2025 · Looking to transfer from B2 to H2B visa? Learn the transfer process, benefits, and drawbacks. CW-1 and H-1B mostly process later 2024 cases. workers for temporary or seasonal roles. However, as a general guideline, it typically takes around 2 to 6 weeks for a standard visa application to be processed in the Philippines. S. The H-2A visa is for temporary agricultural jobs, while the H-2B visa is for temporary non-agricultural jobs. Special Education Exchange Visitor to participate in a special education exchange visitor training program that provides for practical Actual processing times for each employer’s PERM application may vary from the average depending on material facts and individual circumstances of the case. com is not affiliated with any May 21, 2025 · In addition to nonimmigrants in H-1B and H-2A categories, nonimmigrant aliens in other categories may receive extensions of stay if their employers timely file Form I-129 (or Form I-129CW, Petition for a CNMI-Only Nonimmigrant Transitional Worker for CW-nonimmigrants) with USCIS. Visit our data disclosure page to see all the different types of jobs that fall into the category of H-2B. Department of Labor (the Department) must determine that: There are not sufficient U. for a temporary period. The timeline for the visa application for a temporary worker goes from up to 6 months before the start date of the employment to not less than 45 days before the employment date. If you are Jan 21, 2025 · Learn about the new H-2B visa rule, including increased penalties, work flexibility, and lottery updates for fiscal year 2025. Embassy in Bogota. 1, 2024, through March 31, 2025 (fiscal year (FY) 2025 first half of the visa cap): The DOL reported H-2B visa processing times as of June 14, 2025. PERM takes 462 days on average, with high pending volumes. Citizenship and Immigration Services 1 to 2 months processing time Premium Processing available – 15 day processing time Approved I-129 Petition for H-2B Worker (s) CONSULAR PROCESSING USCIS forwards notice of the approval to the U. Information for H-2 visa applicants This video What is the H-2B Visa Fee? The fee is currently $460 and is used to cover the cost of processing the visa application. Feb 5, 2025 · Prevailing Wage Processing Times January 2025 Highlight Delays Across Visa Categories As of early 2025, prevailing wage determinations and visa-related application processing times vary across CW-1, H-1B, H-2B, PERM, and H-2A programs. Jun 27, 2025 · Read the complete H-2B visa application guide covering eligibility, documentation requirements, and how to apply for a seasonal work visa in the US. Before requesting H-2B classification from the U. This visa is commonly used in industries such as hospitality, construction, landscaping, seafood processing, and tourism. On 1/8/24, DOL published list of H-2B applications submitted during this filing window. Mar 19, 2025 · The U. Looking for guidance on how to apply for H-2B visa? Read our comprehensive guide tailored for Filipinos and secure your spot today! Sep 4, 2023 · US Employer H-2B visa guide for temporary nonagricultural workers. Sep 29, 2025 · Planning your J-1 to H-1B transfer? Learn more about the change of status process and processing times to convert to an H-1B visa. Key Dates and Guidelines H-2B Filing Start Date H-2B Temporary Worker VisaThe H-2B visa is a temporary work permit for any type of qualifying full time non-agricultural work. The processing time for an H2B visa application can vary depending on the location of the applicant and current processing times at the U. Jun 25, 2020 · If you are looking to come to work in the US on a temporary basis, The H-2B visa may just be the perfect work visa for you. Sep 10, 2025 · A: The H-2B Visa process can take 3 to 6 months, depending on the DOL and USCIS processing times. May 31, 2023 · What Visa Programs are available to search? The Case Status Search is available for the following foreign labor certification programs: CW-1 (ETA Form 9142C) H-2A (ETA Form 9142A) H-2A Job Order (ETA Form 790/790A) H-2B (ETA Form 9142B) LCA (ETA Form 9035) PERM (ETA Form 9089) Prevailing Wage Determination Requests (ETA Form 9141 and 9141C) To check the status of your PERM application filed Apr 10, 2024 · Just like the H2B visa, an H2A visa is meant to bring foreign workers into the U. What is the H-2B Visa Processing Time? The processing time for an H-2B visa will vary depending on the individual’s circumstances, the specific visa type, and the workload of the U. The H-2B visa classification is designed for non-agricultural temporary immigrant workers who want to work in the U. Eastern Time. Visa holders and employers must track time in the U. H-2B Online Filing via FLAG System Program Overview To issue an H-2B certification to an employer, the U. Department of Labor (DOL) maintains a webpage that posts prevailing wage determination (PWD) and PERM processing times. Alert USCIS processing times for certain form types may no longer reference a specific service center location (for example, Vermont Service Center). H-2B Foreign Labor Certification Job Order Instructions for Alaska Employers The H-2B temporary non-agricultural program allows U. ” Service Center Operations has expanded its capability to process casework at multiple locations, at Mar 26, 2025 · USCIS received enough petitions to meet the H-2B statutory cap for the second half of fiscal year 2025. Some visa types may have longer wait times for the application appointment and processing. H-2A and H-2B achieve significant approvals, with Jul 16, 2024 · The H-2B visa is designed for foreign workers to fill temporary seasonal jobs in the US. ⭐ By experts. Jul 25, 2018 · What is the H-2B visa? The H-2B visa allows foreign nationals to work in temporary nonagricultural jobs. The H-2B visa is a non-immigrant work visa that allows foreign nationals to work temporarily in the United States in non-agricultural jobs. employers to bring foreign workers to the United States for temporary non-agricultural jobs. Dec 22, 2023 · DOL opened the filing window to submit an H-2B Application for Temporary Employment Certification (Form ETA-9142B and appendices) requesting work start dates of 4/1/24 or later on 1/2/24 at 12:00am (ET). employers to hire foreign workers for seasonal, peak-load, intermittent, or one-time non-agricultural jobs. , submit accurate info, and meet new deadlines to remain compliant. Mar 4, 2019 · DOL issued a reminder with filing tips that the three-day filing window to submit an H-2B Application requesting a work start date of October 1, 2024, will open on July 3, 2024, at 12:00 am (ET), and close on July 5, 2024, at 11:59 pm (ET). Jan 24, 2025 · The H-3 nonimmigrant visa category allows aliens coming temporarily to the United States as either a: Trainee to receive training in any field of endeavor, other than graduate medical education or training, that is not available in the alien’s home country. These current average processing times can be found here. Generalmente, el h2b processing time oscila entre 3 y 6 meses, pero a veces puede extenderse aún más. Learn about the US Visa 221(g) administrative processing, including expected timeframes and how and when you will get your passport back. Each year the H-2B allows… We provide inbound immigration services for domestic and international employers of all sizes, including employment-based green cards and visas. OFLC is reporting the average processing time for all PERM applications for the most recent month. Consular Processing: Once the I-129 petition is approved by USCIS, prospective H-2B workers apply for their visas at a U. 2, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Labor (DOL) jointly published a temporary final rule increasing the numerical limit (or cap) on H-2B nonimmigrant visas by up to 64,716 additional visas for all of fiscal year 2025. employers who meet specific regulatory requirements to bring foreign non-immigrant workers to the United States to fill temporary non- agricultural jobs. If the foreign worker is outside the U. Check out the current perm labor certification and npwc processing times for h-1b, h-2b and perm applications. visa policies updated key areas like tax residency rules, SAVE system verification times, H-2B visa caps for fiscal year 2025, new rules for R-1 visa duration, and stricter enforcement of Alien Registration. Jul 19, 2025 · In July 2025, U. Actual processing times for each employer’s PERM application may vary from the average depending on material facts and individual circumstances of the case. Procedures Three steps must be completed before hiring the foreign worker under the H-2B visa program. Department of State at the consulate. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). embassy or consulate in their home country. To apply for the H2B Visa Program as an employer or to get eligibility advice for your business, contact us today. 20. Oct 1, 2025 · The H-2B program allows U. 00 I-129 Base Processing Fee Unnamed Beneficiaries or Understand how the H-2B visa 'lottery' really works in 2025. I-129 filed with U. Best immigration lawyers prepare your h2b application. The following is a comprehensive list of the most frequently asked questions about adjusting and applying for the H-2B visa and status. Here's what employers need to know. workers who are qualified and who will be available to perform the temporary services or labor for which an employer desires to hire foreign workers; and that The employment of H-2B worker (s) will Jun 23, 2025 · Update on applications received for requested date of need from Oct. com 1. Each of these visas requires the prospective employer to first file a petition with U. Busy business owners who are concerned about the time and paperwork involved in the hiring process can turn to a skilled recruiting employment agency h2b visa specialist team like AW Labor Solutions to iron out the details and manage the complexities. After receiving an approved TLC, the employer files an I-129 petition with USCIS (multiple workers may be included on a single petition). . The H-2B classification is vital for industries that experience cyclical or seasonal spikes in demand and need to supplement their workforce temporarily. The guest worker program is administered by the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) U. workers. Apr 16, 2025 · The Department of Labor reported H-2B visa processing times as of April 15, 2025. employers or U. employers can now file H-2B visa applications for temporary non-agricultural jobs starting October 1, 2025. Apr 9, 2023 · 5. Our team provides guidance to both the employer and employees during this step, ensuring all documentation is in order for a successful visa application. Jul 18, 2025 · 1. An approved petition is required to apply for a work visa. agent as described in the regulations, must file Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, on a prospective worker’s behalf. Feb 17, 2025 · The United States Department of Labor reported H-2B visa processing times as of February 13, 2025. Apr 3, 2025 · What Is the H-2B Visa? The H-2B visa allows U. If you are looking to come to the United States on a H-2B Visa, contact Total Law for immediate assistance. ” Service Center Operations has expanded its capability to process casework at multiple locations, at The H2B visa processing time varies depending on a variety of factors, including the workload of the local USCIS processing center and the current demand for H2B visas. Advance travel planning and early visa application are important. H-2B Timeline *The following timeline serves as an informative guide, specific dates may vary depending on lottery placement and consular […] Jun 25, 2025 · Our H-2B visa lawyers discuss H2B Filing Window July 3-5 for October 1, 2025 Work Start Date and H-2B filing tips. Visa Processing for Foreign Workers After USCIS approves the petition, your prospective workers will need to apply for the H-2B visa at a U. What is the processing time for an H-2A or H-2B worker to obtain a nonimmigrant visa? Expected Processing Times (from the creation of the account on the U. agents who meet specific regulatory requirements to bring foreign nationals to the United States to fill temporary nonagricultural jobs. embassy with required documents, with processing times ranging from 60 to 120 days. How long does it typically take to process a visa application in the Philippines? The processing time for a visa application in the Philippines can vary depending on the type of visa being applied for. In this article, we discuss the H2B visa, how to apply for it, the essential documents that must be provided by the employer and the worker, and other details. Jul 17, 2025 · Update on applications received for requested date of need from April 1, 2025 (fiscal year (FY) 2025 second half of the visa cap): The Department of Labor The DOL reported H-2B visa processing times as of July 12, 2025. To find out more about the H-2B visa requirements for employers, visit our page here. These jobs must be temporary because they are seasonal, due to an intermittent need, a one-time occurrence, or due to a peak-load need. This guide breaks down the H-2B visa requirements step-by-step This visa is a kind of temporary work permit for professionals and non-professionals and is divided into several general categories, H1B1, H1B, H1C, H2A, H2B, H3, and H4. We are available to speak over the phone on +1 844 290 6312 and via live chat. 2(h)(6)(ii). Apr 21, 2025 · The H-2B visa program allows US hotels to address seasonal labor shortages by hiring foreign workers for temporary non-agricultural jobs. Another critical development is Jul 23, 2024 · The H-2B visa program has slowly entered the menu of work visa options when sponsoring foreign national employees. Temporary worker visas are for persons who want to enter the United States for employment lasting a fixed period of time, and are not considered permanent or indefinite. What is H2B Visa The H2B Visa is a U. 27, 2025. This visa is typically used for seasonal, peak load, or intermittent labor needs in industries such as hospitality, construction, landscaping, or seafood processing. The H-2B temporary non-agricultural program permits U. Do you want to work legally in the United States and earn money for you and your family? The H-2 visa program makes it possible. Employers often depend on the H-2B Federal program to hire foreign workers to meet labor demands. Federal H2B Visa Fees $580. non-immigrant visa that allows employers to hire foreign workers temporarily for non-agricultural jobs when there is a shortage of U. Contact us today to assist May 22, 2025 · Update on applications received for requested date of need from Oct. Applicants can work temporary jobs in agriculture, construction, forestry, and many other kinds of industries. and requires a visa, he or she applies for an H-2B visa with the U. Mar 4, 2024 · Second, the premium processing fee at USCIS that is available for an H-2B visa filing increased on February 26, 2024. The Premium Processing option allows for expedited processing of your application, while Priority Dates allow for earlier consideration of your application. Learn about the randomized group assignment process, application timeline, and strategies to improve your chances of securing seasonal workers. Department of Labor reported H-2B visa processing times as of March 18, 2025. and perform non-agricultural services or labor. Mar 4, 2025 · The following report presents the latest updates on the processing times for H-2A, H-2B, and CW-1 visa applications based on data available as of March 1, 2025. Contact us. Employers are advised to file timely applications, as delays vary based on application complexity, category H-2B Visa USA - want to go to USA as a Temporary Non-agricultural Worker? Complete guide to help you with eligibility, processing time, cost & documents. In 2024, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) aims to create new rules to promote fair wages, increase efficiency, and improve various aspects of the program, including recruitment, wage calculations, and visa processing times. m. Vermont Center Processing Times National Benefits Center (formerly, Missouri Center) District (or Local) Office Processing DOL Processing Times The U. Petitioners may also use this form to request an extension of stay in or change of status to E-1, E-2, E-3, H-1B1 or TN, or May 13, 2021 · H-2B petitioners must show that their need for workers fits the definition of a “temporary need” under immigration law. No direct permanent residency path exists. Citizenship The employers ought to provide the requisite amount of time for the proper processing of the H2B visa applications. Apr 1, 2025 · Get accurate green card processing times based on current USCIS data, visa bulletin wait periods, and your category and country of origin. Jul 2, 2025 · On Dec. Department of Labor immigration-related applications, including H-1B, PERM, H-2B, H-2A, and CW-1 programs. The filing dates for supplemental H-2B visas for the remainder of FY 2025 are now available. It is typically used for seasonal, peak load, intermittent, or one-time need roles in industries like hospitality, landscaping, construction, seafood processing, and tourism. Aug 31, 2025 · This site provides applicants the ability to see an estimate of the time to completion from submission of USCIS forms based on its adjudication location and subtype. The three-day filing window is open from July 3 to July 5, 2025. Covers seasonal, peak load and eligibility. employers to hire nonimmigrant workers to come to the U. In addition, as of April 1, 2024, petitions filed with Premium Processing will be adjudicated within 15 business days, rather than 15 calendar days. USCIS bases the increase on the CPI-U (which is a measure of inflation). Previously, this amount had been $1,500, and this has now increased to $1,685. H-2B Visa News in 2024 One recent development in H-2 B visa news is announcing upcoming changes to the H-2 B visa program itself. USCIS has not changed its longstanding policy interpreting “temporary need” under 8 CFR 214. October 31, 2025. If you're exploring how this process works—whether you're an employer or a prospective worker—it's important to understand the requirements before applying. Key insights include prevailing wage determination timelines, average processing days, and current application backlogs. Find out how to apply for h2b visa and h2b extension. Jul 3, 2025 · U. Bogota Nonimmigrant Visa Wait Times These are the estimated wait times for a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at the U. to bring eligible workers to the U. Feb 16, 2024 · Filing fee increases from $1,500 to $1,685 for all H-2B I-129 petitions filed with Premium Processing postmarked on or after February 26, 2024. Find detailed answers to your h2a nonimmigrant visa about h2a visa process and extension. Step 1 – Temporary Labor Certification. The process is complex, involves government oversight, and is subject to an annual cap, which often leaves hotels unable to meet full staffing needs. to fill temporary non-agricultural jobs of a temporary (intermittent, peak load need, or one time occurrence) or seasonal nature. The U. com tracks data from US Dept of State, USCIS, DHS, USTravelDocs for latest processing times, reports, analysis. Here's a complete breakdown of deadlines, application rules, and visa caps for the FY 2026 season. 1, 2024, through March 31, 2025 (fiscal year (FY) 2025 first half of the visa cap): The Department of Labor (DOL) reported that as of May 17, a total of 5,944 cases were issued Final Decisions. If you plan to apply for a nonimmigrant visa to come to the United States as a temporary visitor, please review the current wait time for an interview using the tool on the page. Speak to an H-2B visa lawyer. The process takes time: Employers ought to determine their date of need and begin the process accordingly: At least 60 days for the PWD + application submitted 90 days prior = an approximate start date of 150 days prior to the date of need. Mar 3, 2025 · The United States Department of Labor reported H-2B visa processing times as of Feb. employer, or U. Employers use the H-2B visa to hire foreign workers when there is a shortage of U. See full list on lawfirm4immigrants. Feb 12, 2025 · The February 2025 update provides processing times for U. The H-2B Visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows some types of workers to come to the US for specific employment purposes. What is H2B visa? The H-2B visa is a type of nonimmigrant visa which allows employers in the U. Embassy or Consulate where the application is being processed. Jan 2, 2025 · As per the Office of Foreign Labor Certification (OFLC), for employers and stakeholders, the filing window for the US H-2B Temporary Employment Certification Applications (Form ETA-9142B and appendices) opens on January 1, 2025, at 12:00 a. Jun 10, 2025 · 4. Sep 25, 2025 · Overview of the required documents and procedures to apply for an H-2B temporary work visa. Feb 18, 2025 · Trump's new immigration policies may increase USCIS visa processing times in 2025, impacting H-1B, green cards, and naturalization applications. Who is eligible for H2B Visa? Any US employer that has a one-time, seasonal, peakload or intermittent need for workers and otherwise meets the H-2B visa requirements is eligible for the H2B visa. This step The H-2B visa is a temporary work program that allows U. Unlike the H2B visa, though, the H2A one is for agricultural jobs instead of nonagricultural. Learn these 10 must-know facts about the program. jwq dte clf tvf btxoery jyedv eonv mjelfo zgq zkc qfzjgvz rbd joize hmgl rydh