If you’re planning to work in the United States under the H-1B or H-2 visa programs in 2025, you need to know about the latest updates and requirements. These visas remain vital for bringing skilled and temporary workers to the U.S., but several important changes have been introduced to streamline the process and maintain program integrity. Here’s what you need to know to stay ahead.
H-1B Visa: The Basics
The H-1B visa is designed for professionals in “specialty occupations,” typically requiring a bachelor’s degree or higher. Jobs in fields like IT, engineering, healthcare, and mathematics often fall under this category. To apply, you’ll need a job offer from a U.S. employer willing to sponsor your visa.
What’s New for 2025? One of the biggest changes is a new version of Form I-129, which is mandatory for all H-1B petitions filed after January 17, 2025. Older versions will no longer be accepted. Additionally, USCIS is using a beneficiary-centered selection process to ensure fairness. This approach limits multiple registrations for the same individual, reducing the risk of fraud.
How to Apply for an H-1B Visa
- Employer Registration: U.S. employers must register online during the annual registration period, typically in March.
- Labor Condition Application (LCA): After selection, the employer files an LCA with the Department of Labor to ensure fair wages and working conditions.
- File Form I-129: Once the LCA is approved, the employer submits the latest Form I-129 along with supporting documents to USCIS.
- Consular Processing: After petition approval, workers apply for their visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Important Deadlines H-1B applications for Fiscal Year 2026 will open in March 2025, with employment starting October 1, 2025. Make sure your employer stays updated on USCIS announcements for specific dates.
H-2 Visas: Temporary Workforce Support
The H-2 visa program addresses temporary labor shortages and is divided into two categories:
- H-2A Visa: For temporary agricultural workers.
- H-2B Visa: For temporary non-agricultural workers, such as those in hospitality, landscaping, and construction.
What’s New for 2025? For H-2B visas, the Department of Homeland Security has allocated an additional 64,716 visas to meet increased labor demands. Of these, 20,000 are reserved for workers from El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Haiti, and other countries. Additionally, new rules give USCIS the authority to deny petitions if employers have violated labor laws or program requirements in the past.
How to Apply for an H-2 Visa
- Job Order Submission: Employers must submit a job order to the State Workforce Agency (SWA) in the area of employment.
- Temporary Labor Certification: Employers then apply for labor certification from the Department of Labor.
- File Form I-129: With certification in hand, employers submit Form I-129 to USCIS for each worker.
- Consular Processing: Workers apply for the visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate after petition approval.
Timelines to Remember
- H-2A visa applications should be filed 60–75 days before the worker is needed.
- H-2B applications must be submitted 75–90 days in advance.
Key Takeaways
- Both H-1B and H-2 visas have undergone significant updates in 2025, so using the correct forms and following the latest rules is crucial.
- Employers play a major role in the process, from filing applications to ensuring compliance with labor laws.
- For H-1B, the application period starts in March, while H-2 applications require earlier planning based on the job’s start date.
Stay informed by checking the USCIS and Department of Labor websites for updates, deadlines, and resources to help with the application process. Applying for a U.S. work visa may seem daunting, but with proper preparation, you’ll be on your way to success in 2025.
