H-2A vs H-2B: which US visa is right for you?
Two seasonal work visas: the H-2A for temporary agricultural workers, and the H-2B for temporary non-agricultural seasonal work such as hospitality and landscaping.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker Visa (H-2A) | H-2B Temporary Non-Agricultural Worker Visa (H-2B) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Temporary | Temporary |
| Who it's for | For seasonal or temporary agricultural workers filling jobs no US workers are available to fill. | For temporary or seasonal non-agricultural workers, such as hospitality, landscaping or construction labor. |
| Government cost | ~US$205 visa fee; employer pays US$1,090 I-129 petition fee plus labor certification costs | ~US$205 visa fee; employer pays US$1,080 I-129 petition fee plus labor certification costs |
| Processing time | ~Weeks once labor certification is approved | ~Weeks once labor certification is approved (cap subject) |
| Length of stay | Up to 1 year, extendable in increments up to a maximum of 3 years | Up to 1 year, extendable in increments up to a maximum of 3 years |
| Where to apply | Employer files petition; visa stamped at a consulate abroad | Employer files petition; visa stamped at a consulate abroad |
| Work rights | Seasonal agricultural work for the petitioning employer only | Temporary non-agricultural work for the petitioning employer only |
| Pathway to PR | No direct green card route; intended as temporary seasonal labor. | No direct green card route; intended as temporary seasonal labor. |
Which is right for you?
H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker Visa (H-2A)
For seasonal or temporary agricultural workers filling jobs no US workers are available to fill.
Full H-2A guide →H-2B Temporary Non-Agricultural Worker Visa (H-2B)
For temporary or seasonal non-agricultural workers, such as hospitality, landscaping or construction labor.
Full H-2B guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, H-2A or H-2B?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker Visa (H-2A) is the lowest at ~US$205 visa fee; employer pays US$1,090 I-129 petition fee plus labor certification costs. Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
What's the main difference between H-2A and H-2B?
H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker Visa (H-2A) is for for seasonal or temporary agricultural workers filling jobs no US workers are available to fill. H-2B Temporary Non-Agricultural Worker Visa (H-2B) is for for temporary or seasonal non-agricultural workers, such as hospitality, landscaping or construction labor.