The Biden administration has announced plans to issue 64,716 supplemental H-2B visas for the remainder of fiscal year 2025, bringing the total number of these temporary, non-agricultural work visas to over 130,700 — the maximum allowed by Congress. These visas will support industries like hospitality, tourism, landscaping, and seafood processing, as well as other seasonal and temporary jobs.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in collaboration with the Department of Labor, emphasized the importance of these visas in meeting the labor demands of American businesses, particularly during peak seasons. “By maximizing the use of the H-2B visa program, we are helping to sustain the strong U.S. economy while addressing irregular migration concerns,” said Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.

Of the newly issued visas, 20,000 are reserved for workers from countries including Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Haiti, Colombia, Ecuador, and Costa Rica. The remaining 44,716 visas will go to returning workers who have received H-2B status in one of the last three fiscal years. These visas will be distributed between the first and second halves of the fiscal year, with a portion specifically allocated for the summer season's heightened demand.

Industry leaders welcomed the move. Rosanna Maietta, President and CEO of the American Hotel and Lodging Association, noted the program’s critical role in supporting small businesses, particularly in hospitality and tourism. “This decision will help small business hoteliers access the seasonal workers they need to operate efficiently,” Maietta stated, urging Congress to create a more predictable system to address worker shortages.

The H-2B program has long been a priority for U.S. Travel and other advocates, who highlight the program’s role in supporting seasonal businesses and sustaining high demand for travel-related services. As the U.S. grapples with ongoing labor shortages, this expansion of the H-2B visa program is seen as a vital step in addressing workforce needs while maintaining economic growth.