H-2B

H-2B employers are required to actively recruit U.S. workers before hiring foreign labor. Here's exactly what DOL expects and how to stay compliant.

On May 19th, members of the LCI team traveled to Capitol Hill alongside the Seasonal Employment Alliance to advocate for the H-2B program and address the USCIS processing delays that impacted employers across the industry this season.

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.

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.

DOL has announced their annual update to allowable meal charges as well as updated minimum and maximum travel-related subsistence reimbursements.

You’ve made it through the arduous H-2B process and finally ready for your workers to arrive! Look through this checklist to make sure you are ready for their arrival and have a grasp on steps to take to ensure they are ready to work.