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DHS to add over 65,000 H-2B visas for FY 2024
The H-2B program allows U.S. employers to hire noncitizens for temporary nonagricultural labor or services in the United States.
Representative Image / Unsplash
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in collaboration with the Department of Labor (DOL), has announced that they will provide an additional 64,716 H-2B temporary nonagricultural worker visas for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2024.
These new visas will be issued in addition to the 66,000 H-2B visas already allotted for the fiscal year as per congressional mandate. The additional H-2B visas have been allocated in accordance with the maximum limit set by the September 2023 Fiscal Year 2024 Continuing Resolution, a release noted.
Industries such as hospitality, tourism, landscaping, and seafood processing often rely on seasonal or other temporary workers through the H-2B program to meet consumer demand. The supplemental allocation of visas aims to address the demand for seasonal or temporary workers, particularly in areas where there is a shortage of available U.S. workers. It is expected to contribute to the American economy.
By announcing the availability of these supplemental visas at the beginning of FY 2024, the Departments aim to provide U.S. businesses with the ability to plan and address their workforce needs in advance, particularly for seasonal and temporary workers, the release stated.
In this regard, DHS and DOL implemented safeguards to protect both American and foreign workers. This includes the requirement for employers to first seek and recruit American workers for available positions, as mandated by the visa program. Additionally, they are committed to preventing the exploitation of foreign workers by ensuring fair treatment by their employers.
The H-2B program allows U.S. employers to hire noncitizens for temporary nonagricultural labor or services in the United States. This temporary employment may be for specific situations, seasonal requirements, or intermittent needs, rather than for long-term or permanent positions.
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