According to a recent announcement by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the H-2B visa cap for the second half of Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 has been reached. This news comes after the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Department of Labor (DOL) jointly increased the cap by 64,716 visas to address the needs of U.S. businesses.
The H-2B visa program is designed for temporary nonagricultural workers performing services in the United States. Businesses seeking to employ H-2B workers must demonstrate that they have a temporary need for these workers and that their employment will not adversely affect the wages and working conditions of U.S. workers.
Important Filing Dates Announced for Supplemental H-2B Visas
While the H-2B visa cap has been reached, USCIS has announced filing dates for a limited number of supplemental H-2B visas. These visas are available to U.S. businesses that can prove they would suffer irreparable harm without the additional workers.
The specific filing dates for supplemental H-2B visas will vary depending on the nationality of the worker and the employment start date. Employers are encouraged to consult the USCIS website for detailed information on filing procedures and eligibility requirements.
Key Points to Remember for Employers
- The H-2B visa cap for the second half of FY 2024 has been reached.
- USCIS will stop accepting petitions for new H-2B visas on September 16, 2024, or once the cap is reached.
- A limited number of supplemental H-2B visas are available for businesses that can demonstrate irreparable harm.
- Employers should carefully review USCIS guidelines for filing procedures and eligibility requirements.
- Immigration Times remains committed to keeping our readers updated on the latest developments in immigration laws around the globe. For more information on the H-2B visa program, please visit the USCIS website.