How do US farm work visas help foreign workers?

U.S. agricultural work visas primarily fall under the H-2A Temporary Agricultural Workers Program, which allows U.S. employers to bring foreign nationals to the U.S. for seasonal or temporary agricultural work.

How the H-2A Visa Works for Foreign Citizens:

1. Job Offer from a U.S. Employer

• You must first receive a job offer from a U.S. agricultural employer or a recruiter working with one.

• The job must be seasonal or temporary, typically lasting up to 10 months.

2. Employer Applies for Certification

• The U.S. employer must:

o File a temporary labor certification with the U.S. Department of Labor.

o Show that there are not enough U.S. workers available for the job.

o Demonstrate that hiring foreign workers won’t negatively affect wages or working conditions of U.S. workers.

3. Employer Petitions USCIS

• Once approved, the employer files Form I-129 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to petition for you to receive an H-2A visa.

4. Apply for the H-2A Visa

• After USCIS approval, you apply for a visa at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country.

• Attend an interview and provide documents (passport, job offer, petition approval, etc.).

5. Travel and Work in the U.S.

• If approved, you can enter the U.S. and work for the employer under the terms of your contract.

• Visa duration: Usually tied to the length of the job (up to 1 year), with possible extensions up to a maximum of 3 years.

Who Can Apply?

• You must be from a country eligible for H-2A participation. India, Nepal, and the Philippines are included (and others).

• You cannot apply directly—the employer must initiate the process.

Important Notes:

• No permanent residency path from H-2A.

• Employer-provided housing is required if housing is not available locally.

• Transportation and meals may be subsidized.

• Dependents (H-4): Spouse and unmarried children under 21 may accompany but cannot work.

Want to Apply?

If you're interested, you should:

1. Find a U.S.-based agricultural employer or recruitment agency.

2. Ensure the employer is part of the H-2A program.

3. Prepare documents and wait for the employer to complete the certification and petition process.