How Many People Can Get An H-2B Visa? The H-2B visa is an important way for non-immigrant workers looking for temporary work in several non-agricultural fields to come to the United States. Like its sister program, the H-1B visa, the H-2B visa program is limited by a limit set by the U.S. Congress. This cap sets the highest number of visas that can be given out each year through this program. It’s important for both employers and potential workers going through the H-2B visa process to understand how this cap system works.
Under the rules set by Congress, there can only be 66,000 H-2B visas issued each fiscal year. However, this total number of visas is split into two parts that happen every six months, each with 33,000 visas. Cap cycles have two parts. The first part starts on October 1 and finishes on March 31. This is the first half of the fiscal year. After that, the last 33,000 cards became available during the second half of the fiscal year, which ran from April 1st to September 30th.
Step-By-Step Understanding
- What Is the H-2B Visa Program?
- The H-2B visa program makes it easier for foreigners to work temporarily in the United States in non-agricultural fields.
- Understanding the Cap System:
- That’s how many H-2B visas Congress will give out each fiscal year: 66,000.
- This limit is split evenly in half, with 33,000 visas set aside for each half of the fiscal year.
- Timing of Cap Cycles:
- The first cap cycle starts on October 1 and ends on March 31. The second cycle starts on April 1 and ends on September 30.
- Implications for Employers and Employees:
- When planning H-2B visa applications, both employers and potential workers need to keep the cap cycles in mind.
- To get a visa within the limit, you need to start planning early and send in your forms on time.
Read Also: How Much Is The H-2B Visa Fee
Conclusion
As you go through the H-2B visa process, you need to have a full idea of how visas are issued. With a limit of 66,000 visas per year, split into two cycles every six months, stakeholders must plan their actions to make the most of the chances that are available within the limits. Employers and potential employees can improve their chances of getting H-2B visas, which allow them to work temporarily in the United States, by staying educated and following the deadlines set by the government.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the annual cap for H-2B visas?
The annual cap for H-2B visas is set at 66,000 by the U.S. Congress, with 33,000 visas available in each half of the fiscal year.
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How are the 66,000 H-2B visas allocated?
The 66,000 H-2B visas are split into two allocation periods: 33,000 visas are available from October 1 to March 31, and the remaining 33,000 from April 1 to September 30.
