Many employers ask: “ Okay… but what are my real chances of getting workers ?” First — A Quick Refresher on How Supplemental Visas Work For FY 2026, the government created 64,716 additional H-2B visas beyond the regular cap. They are divided by start date of need, not by lottery group: ➡️ April 1 – April 30, 2026: 27,736 visas (returning workers only) ➡️May 1 – September 30, 2026: 18,490 visas (new OR returning workers) This matters because lottery group affects how early you

USCIS has reached the FY2026 first-half supplemental H-2B returning-worker cap (Jan. 1–Mar. 31 start dates), selecting petitions by lottery after demand exceeded the 18,490 available visas. Some timely filers will not receive receipt notices. Employers should promptly discuss contingency plans with counsel and continue advocating to Congress for a predictable, permanent H-2B solution.

The Department of Labor has issued first actions to 57.9% of H-2B Group B filings for April 1, 2026 start dates. Here’s what the latest processing data means for employers in Groups C–H still waiting.

DHS has published the FY 2026 H-2B supplemental visa rule, making 64,716 additional H-2B visas available for seasonal employers. The visas are divided into three allocations based on start date of need, providing expanded hiring opportunities for businesses facing labor shortages.

Demand for H-2B visas has surged 60% in five years, but DOL processing delays are pushing certifications dangerously close to peak season. Without a mid-December release of supplemental FY26 visas, employers could face duplicative filings, bottlenecks, and late worker arrivals into June or July. DHS must act now—and H-2B employers should contact their congressional representatives to urge immediate publication of the supplemental rule.

The H-2A visa program sustains U.S. food security by providing farms with lawful, reliable labor amid ongoing domestic labor shortages.

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.

President Trump’s new travel ban, effective June 9, 2025, blocks or restricts U.S. visa access for 19 countries. Twelve face a full suspension for both immigrant and nonimmigrant visas, while seven face targeted limits, especially on tourist, student, and exchange visas. While some exceptions apply, the policy significantly disrupts travel, employment, and education plans. Affected individuals should consult legal counsel for guidance.

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.

The H-2B cap makes securing seasonal workers in spring a gamble—but smart employers can use the October Strategy to improve their odds. By hiring in the fall or winter, workers are counted against the new fiscal year cap and become cap exempt for spring. This approach can even work for different winter roles, like snow plow drivers. With prevailing wages taking 30–35 days, now’s the time to act—contact me to explore if this strategy fits your business.