USCIS Halts H-2B Work Visa Petitions for Upcoming Job Start Dates
USCIS Temporarily Halts H-2B Petitions
As of September 18, 2023, USCIS confirmed that it will no longer accept new H-2B petitions for temporary nonagricultural workers scheduled to start before April 1, 2025. This decision comes after USCIS reached the congressionally mandated cap of 33,000 H-2B worker petitions for the first half of the fiscal year 2025. Employers must now adjust their hiring plans accordingly.
Impact on Foreign Workers and Employers
- H-2B petitions submitted post-September 18 requesting jobs before April 1, 2025, will be rejected.
- Current H-2B workers may still apply for extensions or changes of employment status.
- Validity of caps means the number of nonimmigrant H-2B visas available for employers is limited each fiscal year.
Future Prospects for H-2B Employment
With the H-2B cap fixed at 66,000 per fiscal year, employers are encouraged to plan for hiring during the second half of 2025 when additional visa numbers will be available. It’s crucial for employers to stay updated on any legislative changes that may affect the H-2B program and its limits.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.