In Country H-2B Candidates: Be Prepared as the Second Half Cap Appears Exhausted
The H-2B visa program is facing a critical moment as the Second Half Cap for FY2025 seems to be exhausted. As of March 5, no I-129 receipt notices have been issued to attorneys and practitioners, yet no official announcement has been made by USCIS. This leaves many employers and candidates in limbo, particularly those already in the U.S. seeking job opportunities.
In-Country H-2B Candidates Must Act Now
If you are currently in the U.S. with a valid H-2B visa and looking for employment, you need to be proactive. Employers will have to wait at least 15 days after an official announcement before they can begin seeking return workers. This means that April 1 start dates will no longer be feasible for new petitions. However, candidates already in the U.S. can still position themselves for opportunities as they arise.
What You Need to Be Job-Ready
To increase your chances of securing an H-2B extension job, make sure you have the following documents readily available:
- Experience Letter – A document from your previous employer detailing your job duties and duration of employment.
- Clear Copy of Your H-2B Visa – A scanned or photocopied version showing your current visa status.
- Clear Copy of Your Passport – Ensure all relevant pages, including your identification and visa stamp, are visible and legible.
- Recent Pay Statement – Proof of current employment and wages, which can help validate your status for an extension.
Next Steps for Employers and Candidates
Employers planning to hire H-2B return workers should monitor USCIS updates closely and be prepared for the 15-day waiting period following the official cap announcement.
For candidates already in the U.S., having your documents in order will streamline the hiring process and improve your chances of securing a new job quickly.
Stay informed and ready—timing is critical in the H-2B process!