The United States has always been a prime destination for foreign workers seeking legitimate opportunities to earn competitive wages, gain international experience, and build a better future.
Among the various visa programs available, the H-2B Visa Sponsorship program stands out as one of the most accessible ways for foreign nationals to work in the USA on a temporary basis.
For 2025, the demand for seasonal and non-agricultural workers in industries such as hospitality, construction, landscaping, and manufacturing is expected to rise significantly, creating a wealth of opportunities for individuals from various countries.
Under the H-2B Visa Sponsorship Jobs program, U.S. employers who face a shortage of domestic workers can hire qualified foreign nationals to fill essential roles.
The U.S. Department of Labor has reported that seasonal labor shortages in several states have pushed companies to rely heavily on H-2B visa holders, with over 130,000 visas issued in 2023 alone. This figure is projected to cross 150,000 by 2025, given the expanding needs of industries like hotels, resorts, amusement parks, fisheries, and construction sites.
One of the most appealing aspects of the H-2B Visa Sponsorship Jobs program is the earning potential. For instance, many hospitality roles in states like Florida and California offer hourly wages ranging between $14 and $20, with overtime pushing total seasonal earnings to $30,000 or more within six to nine months.
In construction and landscaping, workers can earn $16 to $22 per hour, meaning full-season earnings could easily exceed $35,000 depending on overtime and the duration of the contract.
Another crucial benefit is that the H-2B visa allows workers to gain legitimate U.S. work experience while enjoying the cultural exposure of living in the United States.
Workers often return year after year as many employers prefer rehiring previous H-2B employees due to their familiarity with company operations and proven reliability.
As 2025 approaches, the competition for these positions is intensifying. Employers begin recruitment months in advance, so understanding the application process, requirements, and the types of jobs available is critical for prospective applicants.
This article explores everything you need to know about H-2B Visa Sponsorship Jobs in the USA, ensuring you are well-prepared to secure a high-paying seasonal job and make the most of this opportunity.
What are the H-2B Visa Sponsorship Jobs in the USA?
The H-2B visa program was created by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to help American businesses meet temporary or seasonal labor needs when local workers are unavailable.
Unlike the H-2A visa, which is strictly for agricultural work, the H-2B visa covers non-agricultural roles, offering a much wider range of job opportunities across different sectors.
Under this program, U.S. employers must demonstrate that there are not enough domestic workers willing or able to take the job, ensuring that foreign workers are hired only when absolutely necessary.
Once approved, the employer can recruit workers from eligible countries, allowing them to work in the United States legally for a specified period, usually between six to nine months, although in some cases, extensions may be granted for up to three years.
Key Features of H-2B Visa Sponsorship Jobs
The H-2B visa is classified as a temporary, non-immigrant visa. It does not directly lead to permanent residency or a Green Card, but many workers return annually because employers can request them again in future seasons.
One significant feature is that the U.S. government imposes a cap on the number of H-2B visas issued each fiscal year. For 2025, this cap is expected to remain at 66,000 visas, divided equally between the first half (October to March) and the second half (April to September) of the fiscal year.
Another defining feature is employer sponsorship. Workers cannot apply for H-2B visas independently; they must have a U.S.-based employer file a petition on their behalf. This ensures that every worker entering the U.S. has a confirmed job and housing arrangements before arrival.
Wages and Benefits for H-2B Workers
Salaries vary by industry, location, and job type. For instance, housekeeping staff at major U.S. resorts in 2025 can expect to earn between $14 and $18 per hour, leading to total seasonal earnings of $25,000 to $30,000.
Landscaping and construction workers in Texas or North Carolina may earn $17 to $22 per hour, with overtime increasing total pay to $35,000 or more per season. Some employers also provide free or subsidized housing, transportation, and meals, significantly reducing living expenses and allowing workers to save more money.
Duration and Renewal Options
Most contracts last for the employer’s peak season, typically six to nine months. After this period, workers must return to their home countries before reapplying for the next season.
However, many companies prefer rehiring experienced workers, giving them priority in the following year’s recruitment process.
Types of H-2B Visa Sponsorship Jobs in the USA
For foreign workers seeking U.S. opportunities in 2025, the H-2B visa covers multiple industries experiencing seasonal labor shortages. Employers in these sectors rely heavily on temporary foreign workers to keep operations running smoothly during peak seasons.
Hospitality and Tourism Jobs
Hotels, resorts, amusement parks, and restaurants across the United States hire thousands of H-2B workers every year. Positions include housekeepers, waitstaff, lifeguards, cooks, and amusement park attendants.
For example, a housekeeper in Florida can earn $15 per hour, while waitstaff in ski resorts like Colorado often make $14 hourly plus tips, bringing total seasonal earnings to $28,000 or more.
Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance Jobs
Landscaping companies face high demand during spring and summer. Workers handle tasks like lawn care, tree planting, irrigation system installation, and park maintenance. Average pay ranges from $16 to $20 per hour, with total seasonal earnings often surpassing $32,000 when overtime is available.
Construction and Infrastructure Roles
Seasonal construction projects, especially in states like Texas, Arizona, and Florida, require additional laborers. H-2B workers assist in roofing, carpentry, painting, and general labor. Hourly wages in construction typically start at $17 and can go up to $22 depending on experience, meaning workers can earn up to $36,000 in a single season.
Seafood and Fishing Industry Jobs
Coastal states such as Alaska, Louisiana, and Maine hire H-2B workers for crab picking, fish processing, and oyster shucking. These jobs often provide free housing and meals, with hourly rates between $15 and $18. Workers in this sector can expect total seasonal earnings around $25,000 to $28,000.
How to Find H-2B Visa Sponsorship Jobs in the USA
Finding legitimate H-2B visa sponsorship jobs requires preparation, research, and careful application through authorized channels. Many employers begin recruitment months before the peak season, so early planning is critical for success.
Using the U.S. Department of Labor Database
The U.S. Department of Labor publishes certified H-2B job listings, including employer names, job locations, wages, and contract dates. Applicants can use this database to verify legitimate employers and avoid scams. For instance, in 2024, over 120,000 certified positions were listed nationwide, with wages clearly stated for transparency.
Recruitment Agencies Specializing in H-2B Jobs
Many U.S.-based recruitment agencies connect foreign workers with approved H-2B employers. These agencies often assist with interviews, paperwork, and travel arrangements. In 2025, agencies expect to handle thousands of placements in states like Florida, Texas, and California, where demand is highest.
Employer Websites and Job Portals
Large hotel chains, resorts, and landscaping companies often post H-2B openings directly on their official websites. Applicants can also find listings on major job portals such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and seasonal work platforms dedicated to temporary jobs in the U.S.
Word-of-Mouth and Returning Worker Programs
Workers who have participated in previous seasons often share job leads within their communities. Many employers prefer rehiring experienced workers, giving them faster visa processing and better wage offers. In 2024, nearly 30% of H-2B visas were issued to returning workers because of employer preference for familiar and skilled employees.
General Requirements for H-2B Visa Sponsorship Jobs in the USA
Before applying for H-2B visa sponsorship jobs in the United States, it is essential to understand the eligibility requirements set by both the U.S. Department of Labor and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). These requirements are designed to ensure that foreign workers are qualified, the job is legitimate, and the employer has followed all legal processes.
Nationality and Country Eligibility
Only workers from countries designated by the U.S. government are eligible for H-2B visas. In 2025, this list includes over 80 countries, such as Mexico, Jamaica, South Africa, the Philippines, and several European nations.
Applicants from eligible countries accounted for more than 95% of all H-2B visas issued in 2024. The list is reviewed annually, so prospective workers must check for updates before applying.
Job Offer from a Certified Employer
One of the most critical requirements is having a valid job offer from a U.S. employer certified to hire H-2B workers. The employer must first apply for a temporary labor certification from the Department of Labor, proving that there are not enough U.S. workers available for the role.
Once this is approved, the employer files a petition with USCIS before the worker can proceed with the visa application.
Skill and Experience Requirements
While many H-2B jobs are entry-level, some positions in construction or specialized hospitality roles may require prior experience.
For example, line cooks in high-end resorts or equipment operators on construction sites may need at least one to two years of work experience. Average salaries for such skilled roles can reach $20 to $24 per hour, compared to $14 to $16 per hour for entry-level positions.
Health and Character Requirements
Applicants must be in good health and may be asked to undergo medical examinations depending on the nature of the job. Additionally, background checks are sometimes conducted to ensure workers have no criminal records that could pose security risks.
Ability to Cover Initial Costs
While many employers offer housing and transportation assistance, workers may need to pay for visa fees, medical tests, or initial travel expenses. Visa application fees for H-2B visas typically cost around $190 as of 2025, though some employers reimburse this cost after the worker arrives in the U.S.
By meeting these requirements, foreign workers can ensure a smoother application process and increase their chances of securing high-paying seasonal jobs in the United States.
Application Guide for H-2B Visa Sponsorship Jobs in the USA
Securing an H-2B visa involves several steps, beginning with the employer’s certification process and ending with the worker’s visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Understanding each stage is essential to avoid delays and mistakes that could cost you the opportunity.
Employer’s Petition and Certification
The first step involves the U.S. employer applying for a temporary labor certification from the Department of Labor (DOL). In 2025, this process will take approximately 75 days on average. Once certified, the employer submits Form I-129 to USCIS, requesting permission to hire foreign workers for the specified period.
Receiving the Job Offer and Documentation
After USCIS approves the petition, the employer sends the job offer and required documents to the worker. This typically includes the job contract, details on wages, housing arrangements, and the duration of employment.
Filing the Visa Application
The foreign worker then completes the online DS-160 visa application form and pays the $190 non-refundable visa fee. Once submitted, the worker schedules an appointment at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Visa Interview and Approval
At the visa interview, applicants must provide documents such as the job contract, passport, visa fee receipt, and proof of ties to their home country to show they will return after the job ends. Interview approval rates for H-2B visas remain high, averaging 88% in 2024, provided all documents are accurate and complete.
Travel and Work Commencement
Once approved, workers receive their visas and travel to the United States to begin work on the start date specified in their contracts. Employers often arrange airport pickups and temporary accommodation for the first few weeks, reducing initial settlement challenges for workers.
By following this process step by step, foreign workers can successfully secure their H-2B visas and begin earning competitive wages in the U.S. seasonal labor market.
Top Companies Hiring Foreigners in the USA
Several industries and companies in the United States rely heavily on H-2B workers to meet their seasonal labor needs. These companies not only offer competitive wages but also provide safe working environments, housing assistance, and sometimes even transportation and meal benefits.
Hospitality and Resort Chains
Major hotel chains like Marriott International, Hilton Hotels, and Hyatt Resorts consistently hire thousands of H-2B workers annually. In 2024, Hilton alone employed over 4,500 H-2B workers across multiple states, offering wages between $14 and $18 per hour for roles such as housekeepers, cooks, and servers.
Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance Firms
Companies like BrightView Landscapes and Yellowstone Landscape hire seasonal workers for lawn care, irrigation installation, and park maintenance projects. Wages in this sector range from $16 to $20 per hour, with total seasonal earnings averaging $30,000.
Seafood Processing Companies
In states like Alaska, Trident Seafoods and Silver Bay Seafoods employ H-2B workers for fish processing and packaging. These companies often provide free housing and meals, with workers earning between $15 and $18 per hour for contracts lasting six to seven months.
Construction and Infrastructure Contractors
Construction firms in Texas, Florida, and Arizona rely heavily on foreign labor for roofing, carpentry, and general construction roles. Workers in this sector earn some of the highest wages under the H-2B program, averaging $18 to $22 per hour.
These companies have established reputations for compliance with labor laws and fair treatment of workers, making them attractive choices for foreign applicants seeking stable and well-paying seasonal jobs in the USA.
Steps to Secure H-2B Visa Sponsorship Jobs in the USA
For foreign workers aiming to secure H-2B visa jobs in the USA, proper planning and timely action are essential. Employers often fill positions months before the work season begins, so early preparation increases your chances of success.
Start Research Early
Applicants should begin searching for H-2B job openings at least six months before the start of the U.S. peak season. For example, workers targeting summer jobs should start applying by December or January.
Verify Employer Legitimacy
Using the U.S. Department of Labor database ensures that job offers come from certified employers. This helps applicants avoid scams, which unfortunately target many desperate job seekers every year.
Prepare Financially and Logistically
Although many employers offer housing and transportation, workers should have enough savings to cover visa fees, medical tests, and other initial expenses until they start earning in the U.S.
Submit Applications on Time
Visa caps for H-2B programs fill quickly. In 2024, the 33,000-visa cap for the first half of the year was reached within weeks. Submitting applications early gives workers a better chance of being selected.
Keep Returning Each Season
Workers who complete their contracts successfully often get priority consideration in subsequent years. In 2024, nearly one-third of all H-2B jobs went to returning workers because employers trust their experience and reliability.
By following these steps, foreign workers can maximize their chances of securing high-paying H-2B visa sponsorship jobs in the USA, earning wages that can significantly improve their financial future.