The United States will issue 35,000 additional H-2B temporary work visas in fiscal year 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Labor (DOL) have confirmed.
These supplemental visas will be added to the regular annual cap of 66,000 H-2B visas, providing some relief to US employers facing seasonal labor shortages.
However, the increase marks a significant reduction compared to the past three years, when far higher numbers of supplemental visas were made available.
Between 2023 and 2025, US authorities released substantially more H-2B visas each year. The 2026 allocation is nearly 50 percent lower, raising concerns among industries heavily dependent on foreign seasonal workers.
What Is the H-2B Visa?
The H-2B visa allows US employers to hire foreign workers for temporary, non-agricultural jobs when local labor is unavailable. These roles are typically seasonal or linked to peak demand periods.
Common sectors employing H-2B workers include hospitality, tourism, seafood processing, landscaping, forestry, construction support, amusement parks, and manufacturing.
The visa is employer-sponsored and time-limited, requiring workers to return home once their employment ends.
Priority Sectors for Extra Visas
According to DHS and DOL, the additional 35,000 visas in 2026 will prioritize critical industries, including seafood and food processing, forestry, hospitality, tourism, transportation services, and manufacturing. Competition for the limited number of visas is expected to be intense.
Impact on Employers and Workers
Despite the increase, employers warn that fewer supplemental visas could lead to labor shortages, tighter filing deadlines, and increased uncertainty. For foreign workers, the reduced allocation means tougher competition and limited opportunities.
Only nationals from DHS-approved countries are eligible for the H-2B program. Eligible countries include Mexico, Jamaica, the Philippines, Thailand, the United Kingdom, Japan, Brazil, and several others, while countries such as India and China remain excluded.
Outlook for 2026
The H-2B program continues to play a vital role in supporting US seasonal industries. However, with fewer additional visas available in 2026, early planning and timely applications will be crucial for both employers and workers seeking access to the program.
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