The short answer
H-2A lets U.S. farm employers bring in foreign workers for temporary or seasonal agricultural work, after the Department of Labor certifies that U.S. workers are not available. The employer sponsors you.
What to know
- The employer files with the Labor Department and then with USCIS.
- You can only work for the employer that hired you.
- Workers should not pay recruiters or fees to get an H-2A job.
- Stays are for the season, usually up to a year with limits on extensions.
For the exact rules, forms and fees, see the State Department visa website.
Visa Status is an unofficial site. This is general information in plain words, not legal advice. Rules, fees and forms change, so check the official website and your own papers. Written October 2026.