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If you run a farm, ranch, orchard, or any agricultural operation that depends on seasonal labor, you already know how hard it is to find reliable workers every year. The H-2A visa program gives U.S. agricultural employers a legal, reliable path to bring in temporary foreign workers when domestic labor isn't available. In this guide we cover everything you need to know — who qualifies, what employers are responsible for, how the application process works step by step, what the timeline looks like, and how LCI helps farmers and growers navigate the whole thing from start to finish.

H-2A employers are required to provide free housing to workers. Here's a full breakdown of what that means, what DOL expects, and how to stay compliant this season.

The Department of Labor has published its annual update to the allowable meal charges and travel subsistence reimbursement rates for H-2A and H-2B employers, effective April 6, 2026. The maximum meal charge for H-2A employers is now $16.78 per day, and travel subsistence reimbursement rates have been updated to a minimum of $16.78 and a maximum of $68.00 per day with receipts. Here's what changed and what you need to update before your season starts.

The H-2B cap for April 1st start dates has been met. Supplemental visas are available — LCI is already preparing petitions. Here's what employers need to know.

DHS has confirmed 64,716 supplemental H-2B visas for FY 2026. Learn how the program works, key deadlines, and how LCI helps employers secure seasonal workers.

DHS has officially released the FY26 H-2B Supplemental Final Rule, confirming 64,716 additional H-2B visas—the maximum allowed by law. The increase expands access for employers, especially those with spring and summer start dates, but high demand may trigger lotteries. Early preparation and close attention to filing timelines will be critical for FY26.

As the U.S. government shutdown continues into November 2025, the Department of Labor has resumed processing H-2A and H-2B applications under limited contingency operations.

What employers need to know about the new rule and methodology impacting how DOL determines the AEWR rates.

LCI is partnering with Southern Impact to combine expertise, shared values, and a “relationships first” approach to deliver even greater support and success for H-2B and H-2A clients.

An important step in the labor certification process for H-2 visas is to test the labor market to ensure that there are not qualified U.S. workers available for the position that is being listed.

Struggling with payroll for your H-2 employees? Check out these essential tips to ensure compliance and avoid common mistakes.

USCIS has updated Form I-129 as part of the new H-2 Final Rule, introducing stricter compliance requirements and enhanced worker protections for H-2A and H-2B programs. While the changes aim to improve program integrity, many employers are left with vague guidance and increased risk of denials due to unclear expectations.