USCIS has issued a final rule, effective October 2, 2025, introducing Form I-129H2A to streamline H-2A petition filings. Employers may now submit petitions for unnamed beneficiaries once the Department of Labor accepts a Temporary Labor Certification, before final approval. While approval still depends on DOL certification, this change could help reduce delays for agricultural employers facing seasonal deadlines.

H-2B employers are required to notify both USCIS and the Department of Labor within two working days if a worker fails to report, abandons the job, is terminated early, or finishes the job more than 30 days ahead of schedule. These notices are critical for compliance and may impact outbound travel obligations and wage guarantees. Understanding when and how to report these events helps employers stay in good standing with federal agencies.

Planning a trip to the U.S. soon? There's a significant new cost to consider: the U.S. Visa Integrity Fee. Signed into law, this non-waivable $250 charge applies to most nonimmigrant visa holders, including tourists, students, and temporary workers.

The Q-1 visa allows U.S. employers to bring in foreign nationals for work-based cultural exchange programs. Participants share their home country’s traditions, language, and history while working in roles that support cultural learning. This visa is ideal for businesses committed to cultural outreach. Learn what it takes to qualify, how to file, and what documents and fees are required to sponsor Q-1 participants.

The horse-racing industry relies heavily on H-2B visa workers — but with growing visa cap uncertainty, more employers are sponsoring green cards to retain talent long-term. While this offers a pathway to stability, the immigrant visa backlog is causing major delays, leaving both workers and employers in limbo. In a shifting immigration landscape, green card sponsorship is still one of the few viable tools to build a dependable workforce.

Choosing between a J-1 au pair and an H-2B nanny involves more than just childcare preferences—it’s about understanding two very different visa programs. While J-1 au pairs are part of a cultural exchange with strict limits on hours and duties, H-2B nannies are hired as temporary workers with greater flexibility and fewer restrictions. This post breaks down the key differences to help families make the right choice for their needs.

DHS's new H-2 rule adds stricter oversight and denials, increasing compliance risks for employers. Learn how to navigate the changes.

Explore how H-2B and J-1 visas help hospitality businesses meet seasonal staffing needs with skilled workers and cultural exchange.

Hire seasonal workers with H-2 visas. Kirchner Law streamlines the process—expert guidance for employers. www.kirchnerimmigration.com

Learn more about the H-1B and H-2B visa categories and discover which is better suited for your business.