Why the H-2A Visa Program Is Central to America’s Food Security
The H-2A visa program sustains U.S. food security by providing farms with lawful, reliable labor amid ongoing domestic labor shortages.
Harvesting Change: The New H-2A Wage Rule for Agricultural Employers
The Department of Labor’s new Interim Final Rule, effective October 2, 2025, overhauls how Adverse Effect Wage Rates (AEWRs) are determined for H-2A agricultural workers. The rule replaces the national average with state-level data and introduces skill-based wage levels, marking a major step toward localized, market-driven wage determination. Growers and workers alike should prepare now for its wide-ranging compliance impacts.
USCIS Issues Final Rule to Streamline H-2A Petition Filings
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.
What a Federal Government Shutdown Could Mean for the H-2 Programs and U.S. Immigration Processing
With a possible government shutdown approaching on October 1, 2025, employers relying on H-2B visas should prepare for disruptions. While USCIS, CBP, and consulates abroad are expected to continue many operations, the Department of Labor’s FLAG system will shut down, halting prevailing wage requests, H-2B applications (ETA-9142B), H-2A applications (ETA-9142A), LCAs, and PERM filings. Early action and planning are critical to minimize delays.
The Biggest Mistake Agricultural Employers Make with H-2A Visas — And How to Avoid It
Many agricultural employers lose critical harvest help by starting the H-2A visa process too late. With a 75–90 day minimum timeline, waiting until crops are nearly ready means workers won’t arrive in time. Learn the steps to secure seasonal labor, key program requirements, and why planning months ahead is essential to keeping your harvest on track and your operation running smoothly.
DOL Proposes Reversal of 2024 H-2A Worker Protection Rule
The U.S. Department of Labor has proposed rescinding the 2024 H-2A Final Rule, which had expanded protections for temporary agricultural workers. The rule included NLRA-style rights, seatbelt mandates, stricter termination rules, and increased data reporting. Legal challenges and enforcement concerns have prompted DOL to reconsider. Employers should watch this rollback closely for its impact on H-2A compliance and farm labor operations.
Proposed 5% Remittance Tax Could Hit Legal Visa Holders Hard
A proposed 5% federal tax on remittances sent by non-citizens could significantly impact legal visa holders, including those on H-2A and H-2B visas. While aimed at deterring unauthorized immigration, the measure may disrupt essential financial support that seasonal workers send home—money that sustains families and communities abroad.
Staying Compliant with the H-2B Visa Program: Key Requirements Employers Should Know
Employers using the H-2B visa program must meet strict compliance obligations, from paying the prevailing wage to both H-2B and U.S. workers, to maintaining accurate records and ensuring full-time work. Noncompliance can result in fines, audits, and debarment. This article outlines key compliance areas every H-2B employer should understand to protect their business and stay in good standing.
Understanding DHS's New H-2 Visa Rule: What Employers Need to Know
DHS's new H-2 rule adds stricter oversight and denials, increasing compliance risks for employers. Learn how to navigate the changes.
H-2 Visas for Meat Producers to Fill Positions
Meat producers face severe labor shortages—H-2A & H-2B visas offer solutions. Learn how these programs help fill critical roles.
