A U.S. employer cannot hire under the H-2B program to reduce labor costs. To qualify, the business must satisfy four main criteria:

1. Proof of Temporary Need: The employer must prove their need for labor is a one-time occurrence, seasonal, peak-load, or intermittent.

2. Department of Labor Certification: The employer must obtain a Temporary Labor Certification (Form ETA-9142B) demonstrating that hiring foreign workers will not adversely affect the wages or working conditions of U.S. workers.

3. Local Recruitment First: Employers must attempt to hire U.S. workers first through local job boards, state workforce agencies, and advertising.

4. Prevailing Wage Payment: H-2B employees must be paid the local prevailing wage for that specific occupation.

Key Visa Characteristics and Rules:

• Annual Cap: Congress sets a strict statutory cap of 66,000 H-2B visas per fiscal year (33,000 for the first half of the year, 33,000 for the second half). The Department of Homeland Security frequently releases supplemental visa allocations depending on demand.

• Duration and Stay: Visas are initially granted for the duration of the approved job (up to 1 year). They can be extended in increments, but the maximum continuous stay is 3 years.

• Non-Immigrant Intent: The H-2B is not a direct path to a Green Card. Applicants must demonstrate intent to return to their home country after the visa ends.

• Dependents: Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can join on H-4 status, but H-4 dependents are not permitted to work in the U.S.

• Hospitality graduates and professionals

• Skilled workers in food & beverage, housekeeping, culinary, and customer service

• Candidates willing to relocate for 6–10 months

• Age 18 - 35 years old

• Paid seasonal work experience in the USA

• Cultural exchange and career growth opportunities

• Accommodation provided by most host employers

• Valuable international exposure for your CV

• Valid passport

• Relevant hospitality experience or training

• Employer sponsorship through Niel's International

• Commitment to complete the seasonal contract

• Submit your CV and certificates to us.

• Attend an interview and screening process.

• We secure employer sponsorship.

• Complete visa processing with our guidance.

• Begin your seasonal work placement in the USA.