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DOL and DHS Release 35,000 Additional H-2B Visas for Fiscal Year 2026
The U.S. Departments of Labor (DOL) and Homeland Security (DHS) have announced the release of 35,000 additional H-2B temporary nonagricultural worker visas for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026, expanding opportunities for U.S. employers facing ongoing seasonal labor shortages. JTP Agency
For ongoing insights and in-depth guides about the H-2B visa process, eligibility, and employer requirements, explore the JTP Agency Blog and articles such as “The H-2B Visa: A Bridge Between Labor Shortages and Opportunity in the Northern Triangle.” JTP Agency
What Is the H-2B Visa Program?
The H-2B visa program allows U.S. employers to hire foreign workers for temporary, nonagricultural jobs when qualified U.S. workers are unavailable.
To understand the steps involved in applying for the H-2B visa, see “Steps to Apply for the H-2B Visa Program.” JTP Agency
Industries that frequently rely on H-2B workers include:
- Hospitality and tourism
- Landscaping and groundskeeping
- Seafood processing
- Forestry and logging
- Construction-related services
Because the H-2B cap is often reached early, supplemental visa releases like this one are essential. For a deeper dive into H-2B fundamentals, refer to the comprehensive program overview on the agency’s blog. JTP Agency
35,000 Supplemental H-2B Visas for FY 2026
For FY 2026, DOL and DHS plan to make 35,000 supplemental H-2B visas available, representing a more targeted release compared to previous years. JTP Agency
These additional visas will support industries with recurring labor shortages such as seafood processing, hospitality, transportation, and manufacturing.
To better understand how employers must approach H-2B recruitment requirements, see “Understanding H-2B Program Recruiting Requirements.” JTP Agency
When Will the Additional H-2B Visas Be Available?
DOL and DHS announced that eligibility criteria, filing requirements, and allocation details will be released in the coming weeks.
These details will be published through a temporary final rule in the Federal Register, issued under time-limited authority granted by Congress for FY 2026.
Because filing windows are often short and highly competitive, employers are encouraged to stay updated through trusted immigration resources. Articles like “Employer Obligations to U.S. Workers” provide helpful context for H-2B compliance. JTP Agency
What Employers Should Do Now
To prepare for the FY 2026 H-2B season, employers should begin planning by:
- Evaluating seasonal or peak labor needs
- Confirming positions qualify as temporary under H-2B regulations
- Gathering documentation to demonstrate labor shortages
- Preparing for prevailing wage and recruitment requirements
- Staying informed through reliable immigration updates on the JTP Agency Blog
Proactive planning and knowledge of the application process — as outlined in “Steps to Apply for the H-2B Visa Program” — can significantly improve the chance of securing H-2B workers. JTP Agency
Why This Matters for U.S. Businesses
Ongoing labor shortages continue to challenge seasonal industries nationwide. Supplemental H-2B visas help employers:
- Maintain operations during peak demand
- Meet customer and production needs
- Support local economies and critical infrastructure
Although the FY 2026 allocation is smaller than in recent years, it remains a valuable opportunity. For additional context on broader labor shortages and how H-2B visas play a role, refer to “The H-2B Visa: A Bridge Between Labor Shortages and Opportunity in the Northern Triangle.” JTP Agency
Final Thoughts
The release of 35,000 additional H-2B visas for FY 2026 reflects the federal government’s ongoing effort to balance workforce needs with program oversight.
Businesses that rely on temporary nonagricultural labor should act early and stay informed. Visit the JTP Agency Blog for updates, expert guidance, and H-2B resources, including step-by-step process articles and compliance best practices